smoked sausage and potatoes bake

🧂 Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (kielbasa or any smoked variety), sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 medium russet or red potatoes, scrubbed and diced into bite-sized cubes
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped (optional but recommended)
• 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

🔪 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even roasting and crisp edges on the potatoes.

Step 2: Chop and Season

• Dice your potatoes into ½-inch cubes so they cook evenly.
• Slice the sausage into rounds.
• Toss the potatoes, sliced onions, and bell peppers in a large bowl.
• Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat everything evenly.

Step 3: Assemble in the Pan

• In a large baking dish or sheet pan, arrange the seasoned potatoes and veggies in an even layer.
• Tuck the sausage slices in between and on top so the smoky flavor infuses the entire dish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and fork-tender, and the sausage has crispy edges.
• If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking and allow it to melt.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve hot and enjoy this cozy, flavor-packed meal.

🍴Tips and Variations

• Veggie boost: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or broccoli.
• Extra crunch: Add breadcrumbs on top before the final 10 minutes of baking.
• Make it spicy: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes.
• Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat easily.

🧡 Final Thoughts

The Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Bake is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s rustic, filling, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this dish brings comfort to any table with minimal fuss and maximum reward.

Dig in, and let every bite remind you of the joy of home-cooked meals.