Creamy Pimento Cheese Kielbasa and Potato Casserole Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly season the potato slices with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper before adding the kielbasa. This ensures that the base of the casserole is well-seasoned. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños into the pimento cheese sauce before pouring it over the dish.

To achieve a more pronounced crust on the edges, you can place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven to ensure even heat distribution. If the top browns too quickly before the potatoes are tender, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the final 15 minutes of baking, then remove the foil to allow the cheese to finish browning properly.

Variations

• Spicy Pimento Casserole: Incorporate a tablespoon of diced pickled jalapeños into the pimento cheese sauce and use a spicy andouille sausage instead of mild kielbasa for a significant kick.
• Herb-Infused Casserole: Stir in two tablespoons of finely chopped fresh chives or parsley into the pimento cheese sauce before pouring to add a bright, herbal note that cuts the richness.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Not recommended, as the texture of the potatoes and the cheese sauce may change significantly upon thawing.

Reheat

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or warm the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through.

Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep the container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Consume the leftovers within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and flavor. When storing, try to keep the casserole in a single layer if possible to prevent the potatoes from becoming too soft.

You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to layer the ingredients and add the sauce and cheese, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and place it directly into the preheated oven. You may need to add 5 to 10 minutes to the total baking time since the dish will be starting from a cold temperature.

Serving ideas

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, accompanied by a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette on the greens helps cut through the creamy, cheesy sauce, making the meal feel more balanced.

The casserole is substantial enough to serve as a main course on its own, especially when paired with a crusty bread to scoop up any remaining sauce.

When serving, use a wide spatula to lift portions from the baking dish, ensuring each serving includes a good mix of potatoes, kielbasa, and the creamy cheese sauce.

If you have extra fresh herbs like parsley or chives, a light sprinkle over the top before serving adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich, golden cheese crust and enhances the overall presentation of the meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Pimento Cheese Kielbasa and Potato Casserole

Prep 15 minCook 45 minRest 5 minTotal 1 h 5 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into coins
• 1 1/2 cups pimento cheese sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large rectangular ceramic baking dish, arrange the thinly sliced gold potatoes in an even, overlapping layer. Place the kielbasa coin slices over the potato layer, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
2. Pour the pimento cheese sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and kielbasa. Use a spoon to gently spread the sauce if necessary, ensuring it reaches the edges of the dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the entire surface of the casserole.
3. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Ensure the kielbasa reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

480

Protein

18.5 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

31 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.