DELICIOUS Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage casserole

Folks, if you are trying to watch your weight, bookmark this recipe and exit now :-)  As AMAZING as this is, it is not friendly on the tummy.  If you love scalloped potatoes, you will absolutely love this!  I was skeptical about making this when I found it because as good as it looked, I do NOT like using Velveeta blocked cheese due to how processed it is.  But I went ahead and used it because it always makes a good cream sauce base.

Ingredients:

3 C. Idaho potatoes, cut into cubes and boiled

4 Tbs. Butter

4 Tbs. Flour

2 C. Milk

1/2 tsp. Salt

1/4 tsp. Pepper

1/2 lb Velveeta cheese

1/2 C. Sharp Cheddar Cheese

1 lb smoked sausage (whatever brand you like)

1/8 tsp. Paprika

Directions:

1. Cut 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.

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).

Notes*

I have never been a huge fan of sausage chunks, nor have I liked putting a whole pound in a 2 qt. casserole dish.  So, next time I will be substituting bacon for the sausage.  I will cook the bacon strips first and use them exactly like I did the sausage.  This will make it taste even MORE like a loaded baked potato :-)

Recipe adapted from http://www.food.com/