Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole

I understand that many people have an aversion to Velveeta cheese. I, personally, am not one of those. I love the ease of it and the creamy texture it adds to food. The super processed cheese may cause complications later in my life, but I will happily eat it for now!

I came across this recipe on Pinterest (Hurray for Pinterest!) and had to try it. I made it on a particularly cold day and it was seriously heaven in a bowl. It came together quite easy and I was more than pleased with the outcome.

This will definitely be making a frequent appearance on our table during the winter months!

Cheese Potatoe and Smoked Sausage Casserole

3 cups potatoes potatoes peeled, boiled and cut into cubes when cool. ( I left the peels on and cubed the potatoes before I cooked them. Worked like a charm)

4 Tbs Butter

4 Tbs Flour

2 cups Milk

1/2 tsp Salt

1/4 tsp Pepper

1/2 lb Velveeta Cheese, diced

1/2 cup Sharp Chedder Cheese, shredded

1 lb skinless smoked sausage (I used the turkey sausage that is in a "U" shape)

1/8 tsp Paprika

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. Melt butter in a saucepan. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly for a minute. Add milk, salt, pepper, and cut up Velveeta cheese. Stir constantly until smooth.

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.