Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake: A Hearty Comfort Dish Step by Step

Few meals feel as cozy and satisfying as a well-made casserole, and the Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake is a perfect example. It combines smoky sausage, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese into a warm, family-friendly dish that works equally well for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. The best part? It’s straightforward to make, and you can customize it to your taste.

Here’s a complete guide—step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4–6 people)

• 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage (kielbasa works perfectly), sliced into ½-inch pieces
• 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into thin slices
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the smoked sausage slices and cook for 4–5 minutes, until lightly browned on the edges.
• Remove and set aside. This step intensifies the smoky flavor and ensures the sausage doesn’t turn rubbery in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil or butter.
2. Sauté the sliced onions until soft and golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well—it will form a paste (a roux).
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and whisk to avoid lumps.
5. Add the heavy cream and sour cream. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Layer the Bake

Now comes the fun part—assembling:

1. Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
2. Arrange a layer of potato slices over it.
3. Add some browned sausage and onions.
4. Sprinkle with a handful of shredded cheese.
5. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with sauce on top.

Please Head On keep  on Reading  (>)