These mash potatoes with sausage combine creamy mashed potatoes with savory smoked sausage, sweet corn, and a cheesy topping for a complete meal. The dish comes together in about 65 minutes.
The total cost is $3.84 for four servings, which works out to $0.96 per serving.
What this costs
These are estimated costs based on typical U.S. supermarket store-brand prices in September 2026. Prices vary by store and region, so treat them as a guide.
| Ingredient | Amount used | Pack size | Pack price | Recipe cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Potatoes | 1 pound | 5 lb bag | $3.99 | $0.80 |
| Smoked Sausage | 4 ounces | 12 oz pack | $3.50 | $1.17 |
| Unsalted Butter | 3 tablespoons | 1 lb (4 sticks) | $4.00 | $0.38 |
| Whole Milk | 2/3 cup | 1 gallon | $3.50 | $0.15 |
| Garlic Clove | 1 clove | 3-pack | $1.50 | $0.25 |
| Frozen Corn | 1/2 cup | 12 oz bag | $1.50 | $0.30 |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 1/4 cup | 8 oz bag | $2.50 | $0.31 |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 3 tablespoons | 8 oz container | $3.00 | $0.38 |
| Salt | to taste | 26 oz container | $1.00 | $0.05 |
| Black Pepper | to taste | 4 oz container | $2.00 | $0.05 |
| Total recipe cost | $3.84 | |||
| Cost per serving | 4 servings | $0.96 |
Ingredient cost = pack price ÷ pack quantity × amount used. Cost per serving = total recipe cost ÷ servings.
Ingredient Notes and Cheaper Swaps
Red Potatoes
Red potatoes have a naturally creamy texture and thin skin, which means less peeling. This recipe uses about 1 pound, which is typically 3-5 medium-sized potatoes. You can swap in Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, though Russets might require a bit more milk to achieve the same creamy consistency.
Smoked Sausage
Only 4 ounces of smoked sausage are needed. Look for store-brand smoked sausage for the best value. Leftover ham or cooked ground beef can also be used as a budget-friendly substitute, though the flavor will be different. If you have more smoked sausage to use for another meal, try air fryer smoked sausage with your choice of sides.
Frozen Corn
You can use canned corn (drained well) instead, or a small amount of leftover cooked vegetables like peas or diced carrots.
Cheeses
Store-brand shredded cheeses are usually the most budget-friendly option. If you only have one type of cheese, use it alone; Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or extra Parmesan all work.
How to Make Mash Potatoes with Sausage Step by Step
Peel the potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters so they cook evenly. Place them in a medium pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork, about 25 to 35 minutes.
While the potatoes cook, preheat the oven to 450°F, mince the garlic and cube the smoked sausage. Drain the potatoes thoroughly, return them to the hot pot and mash until most of the lumps are gone. Warm the milk in the microwave for about 40 seconds.
Stir the butter into the hot mashed potatoes until melted, then add the garlic. Pour in about 2/3 cup of the warm milk, mix, and season with salt and pepper. The sausage and corn add some moisture, so start with less milk and add more if you prefer a looser consistency.
Cook the cubed sausage in a medium pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and a little crispy. Add the frozen corn and cook for another few minutes until it starts to get some color. Mix the sausage and corn into the mashed potatoes.
Transfer the mixture to a medium ovenproof casserole or baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving so it sets slightly. The full quantities and steps are in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Overcook or Undercook Potatoes: Potatoes should be fork-tender but not falling apart. Undercooked potatoes will be lumpy, and overcooked ones can become watery.
- Warm Your Milk: Warm milk is absorbed better than cold milk, giving a smoother, creamier mash.
- Season as You Go: Taste after adding the milk and butter, and again after mixing in the sausage and corn.
Storing, Freezing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
To freeze, cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers, such as Basics Glass Food Storage containers, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until warmed through. For larger amounts, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Serving Ideas and Variations
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette contrasts with the rich casserole.
- Steamed Green Beans: Add color and extra vegetables.
- Add Veggies: Add other quick-cooking vegetables to the sausage and corn mixture, like diced bell peppers or spinach. For a separate dinner that pairs sausage with cabbage, make smothered cabbage with sausage.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or use a spicier smoked sausage.
Mash Potatoes with Sausage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the peeled and halved potatoes in a medium pot, cover with cold water, and season generously with salt.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 25-35 minutes.
- While potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot; mash with a potato masher until smooth.
- In a microwave-safe cup, warm the whole milk for about 40 seconds until warm.
- Add the butter to the mashed potatoes, stirring until melted, then stir in the minced garlic.
- Add 2/3 cup of warm milk and stir; add more warm milk if needed to reach your desired consistency, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium pan over medium heat, cook the cubed smoked sausage for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned.
- Add the frozen corn to the pan with the sausage and cook for another few minutes until the corn starts to get some color.
- Transfer the sausage and corn mixture to the mashed potatoes and mix everything together well.
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture into a medium ovenproof casserole or baking dish.
- Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can swap red potatoes for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds will give a similar creamy texture, while Russets might require a bit more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
What kind of smoked sausage works best?
Any pre-cooked smoked sausage will work well. Look for store-brand options for the best value. You can use pork, beef, or even turkey smoked sausage depending on your preference.
Can I make mash potatoes with sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato and sausage mixture up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, transfer to your baking dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Once completely cooled, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the minced garlic, or choose a spicy variety of smoked sausage. You could also add a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potato mixture.
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