1. Prepare the Sausage and Onion
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Once the sausage is almost cooked, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
- While the sausage mixture is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛ inch thick) so they cook evenly in the oven. If you have a mandoline, it works great for achieving uniform slices.
3. Assemble the Casserole Layers
- In the greased baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping them. Season the potato layer with a little salt and pepper.
- Spread half of the sausage and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the sausage mixture.
- Repeat with a second layer of potatoes, seasoning with salt and pepper, followed by the remaining sausage and onion mixture, and a second layer of mozzarella cheese.
4. Prepare the Cream Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and a little more salt and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and sausage in the baking dish. The cream will seep into the layers as it bakes, creating a rich and creamy texture.
5. Top with Parmesan and Bake
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer for extra flavor and a golden crust.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty loaf of bread to complete the meal. It’s also perfect as a stand-alone dish because it’s hearty and filling on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
With layers of tender potatoes, savory sausage, and creamy mozzarella cheese, this casserole is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. The Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese add depth, while the heavy cream and mozzarella create a luscious, cheesy finish. It’s easy to prepare, and the leftovers taste just as good, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.