Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes make a delicious variation that adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory sausage. They cook a bit faster than regular potatoes, so check for doneness earlier if using the slow cooker method.

What can I substitute for the cream cheese?

Velveeta works perfectly as mentioned in the recipe. You could also use 4 ounces of shredded cheddar mixed with 2 tablespoons of sour cream to achieve a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish lower in fat?

Yes! Use turkey sausage instead of pork, choose reduced-fat cream cheese, and increase the vegetables. You'll still get a delicious, creamy casserole with less fat.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! This recipe is very forgiving. Diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers all work well. Add firm vegetables like carrots with the potatoes, and more delicate vegetables like zucchini in the last 30 minutes of cooking (slow cooker) or after pressure cooking (Instant Pot).

Holy Casserole Recipe - LazyDayRecipes

This delicious Holy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese into one incredible dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this versatile recipe can be made in either an Instant Pot or slow cooker, giving you options based on your schedule. The blend of flavors from the sausage, vegetables, and cream cheese creates a hearty, satisfying meal that your whole family will request again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Time-Saving Options: Make it quick in the Instant Pot (ready in minutes!) or let it simmer all day in your slow cooker while you handle other things.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your evening.
Customizable: The base recipe is fantastic as is, but you can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
Hearty and Filling: This isn’t a light, leave-you-hungry-later kind of meal. The combination of potatoes, sausage, and vegetables creates a satisfying dish that truly sticks to your ribs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Sausage: Provides the savory, meaty base of the casserole. Use mild or spicy depending on your heat preference.
Onion: Adds aromatic flavor and sweetness when cooked down with the sausage.
Mushrooms: Bring an earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the sausage perfectly.
Chicken Broth: Creates steam for pressure cooking and adds depth of flavor to the casserole.
Potatoes: The hearty, filling component that soaks up all the delicious flavors in the dish.
Rotel Tomatoes: These canned tomatoes with green chilies add zesty flavor and a hint of heat. Mild or original works great.
Cream Cheese: Creates the creamy, luxurious texture that makes this casserole so comforting.
Green Pepper: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast.
Spinach: Sneaks in some nutrition while complementing the other flavors perfectly.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Meat Lovers Version

Swap the sausage for half ground beef and half bacon for an even more indulgent version. Cook the bacon first, then use a bit of the bacon fat to brown the beef.

Vegetarian Option

Replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative or simply double up on mushrooms and add a can of drained black beans for protein.

Spicy Kick

Use hot Rotel instead of mild, add a diced jalapeño with the green pepper, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce at the end.

Loaded Potato Style

Top with cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

How to Make Holy Casserole

Instant Pot Method

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to sauté. When it displays HOT, add the ground sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the diced onions and mushrooms, cooking everything together for about 5 minutes until the sausage is browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot thoroughly to release any stuck bits. This prevents the dreaded “burn” notice and incorporates all those flavorful browned bits into your dish.

Step 3: Layer Remaining Ingredients

Turn off the Instant Pot. Add the cubed potatoes, then pour in the Rotel tomatoes. Add the cream cheese and diced green pepper on top.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Set the manual/pressure cook button to 3 minutes. When the cooking time ends, carefully quick-release the pressure by moving the valve to venting.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Remove the lid and stir in the chopped spinach. Gently mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the spinach wilts from the residual heat.

Slow Cooker Method

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sausage for about 5 minutes. Add the onions and mushrooms, continuing to cook until the sausage is fully browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess grease and transfer to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the chicken broth, cubed potatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and green pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese

Add the cream cheese, cover again, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in the spinach and gently mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the spinach has wilted.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Potato Selection: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes as they hold their shape better during cooking.
Make a Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the hot casserole after cooking.
Pre-cut Ingredients: Save time by chopping vegetables and potatoes ahead of time and storing them in the refrigerator until needed.
Sausage Options: While any ground sausage works well, Italian sausage (mild or hot) adds fantastic flavor with minimal effort.

How to Serve

Main Meal

Serve this hearty casserole in bowls for a complete one-dish meal. It’s filling enough to stand alone!

Side Pairings

If you want to round out the meal, pair with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.

Bread Options

A slice of crusty bread or warm garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This casserole tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. The texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavor remains delicious.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger amounts, reheat in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20-25 minutes). Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes make a delicious variation that adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory sausage. They cook a bit faster than regular potatoes, so check for doneness earlier if using the slow cooker method.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?

Velveeta works perfectly as mentioned in the recipe. You could also use 4 ounces of shredded cheddar mixed with 2 tablespoons of sour cream to achieve a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish lower in fat?

Yes! Use turkey sausage instead of pork, choose reduced-fat cream cheese, and increase the vegetables. You’ll still get a delicious, creamy casserole with less fat.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! This recipe is very forgiving. Diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers all work well. Add firm vegetables like carrots with the potatoes, and more delicate vegetables like zucchini in the last 30 minutes of cooking (slow cooker) or after pressure cooking (Instant Pot).

Final Thoughts

This Holy Casserole truly lives up to its name – it’s a miraculous blend of convenience and comfort food perfection. Whether you need a quick weeknight solution or a hearty meal to come home to after a long day, this adaptable recipe has you covered. The combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce creates something truly special that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Give it a try tonight – your family will thank you!