Potato and Sausage Casserole

YUMMO!

So I made this tasty little dish for supper earlier this week, and just let me say, it was/is stupendous.  I am still munching on the leftovers.

Mr. Hottie even complimented it and returned for seconds. Success!

I found it on Pinterest, and for the most part I followed the recipe.  I HIGHLY recommend it!

Disclaimer: I don't recommend it because it is healthy by any means....I'm fairly certain it is the complete opposite of healthy.

Anyway, the recipe can be found here.

And here:

*Changes I made due to either an ingredient shortage or just because I can:

• In place of the Velveeta I simply melted in about a third of a block of cheddar cheese.
• I used 2 gigantic potatoes....it was plenty.
• I did not bother to peel my sausage....that's weird.  I just used a package of Zummos.  I think it had about 7 or 8 links.
• I sprinkled on french fried onions about 5 minutes before pulling it out of the oven. I would venture to say that the final outcome was probably improved by a bajillion percent by doing so.

3 cups idaho potatoes, peeled, boiled and cut into cubes when cool, approx. 1 lb
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 lb Velveeta cheese, diced
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 lb skinless smoked sausage (Eckrich is my favorite brand)
1/8 teaspoon paprika
Directions:

1
Cut skinless smoked sausage in half, lengthwise, and then chop into 1/2 inch "half moon" cuts. Cook in a frying pan for about 15 minutes, turning frequently to SLIGHTLY brown.
2
Meanwhile, put cooked & diced potatoes in 2 quart casserole. Add cooked meat and give it a gentle toss.
3
Mix all remaining ingredients (except for shredded cheddar cheese & the paprika) in a saucepan over medium heat until warm, melted and smooth. (Use a whisk and stir constantly.).
4
Pour white/cheese sauce over potatoes and meat. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top, and then sprinkle paprika evenly over the top.
5
Bake in preheated 350°F oven for 35-45 minutes (watch, until golden brown on top).
6
NOTE: You can substitute: 1/2 lb. hot dogs, sliced into 1/2-inch slices OR 1/2 lb. ham diced into 1/2-inch dices OR 12 oz. can of Spam diced into 1/2-inch dices, instead of the smoked sausage.

Read more at: http://www.food.com/recipe/joleans-cheese-potato-smoked-sausage-casserole-126623?oc=linkback