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Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Bake

Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Bake

A hearty, flavorful, and cheesy Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Bake combining smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese for a comforting and easy weeknight meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz smoked sausage (kielbasa or Andouille), sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, washed, peeled if desired, and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve 1/4 cup for topping)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
  • Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for veggie boost
  • Red pepper flakes for spicy kick
  • Plant-based cheese and almond or oat milk for dairy-free version
  • Alternative cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack
  • Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for variation

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if you prefer, then thinly slice them to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the creamy, cheesy flavors.
  2. Cook the Sausage and Onions: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft and fragrant, releasing delicious smoky aromas.
  3. Assemble the Bake: Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom, then spread the sausage and onion mixture on top. Add the remaining potato slices. Pour the heavy cream or milk over the layers, then season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle most of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, reserving some for the final topping.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese topping to become golden and bubbly.
  5. Let It Rest and Garnish: After removing from the oven, let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
  • Sauté the sausage and onions to deepen the flavor.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for better melt and flavor depth.
  • Cover the dish with foil while baking to prevent cheese from over-browning early.
  • Let the bake rest after baking to help it set for easier serving.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based cheese and almond or oat milk.
  • Customize by adding vegetables or spice to suit your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked sausage, cheesy potato bake, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, skillet bake, family friendly, gluten free