This Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake is the definition of easy comfort food. With hearty chunks of smoked sausage, golden roasted potatoes, and tender vegetables all tossed in a flavorful seasoning blend, this one-pan meal is both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something filling, delicious, and minimal on cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into bite-sized cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and dice the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds and chop the bell peppers and onion.
2. Combine Everything in a Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, add the potatoes, smoked sausage, bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the sausage and veggies are well-coated in the seasoning.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or large sheet pan. Spread it out evenly in a single layer — this helps the potatoes roast properly and get crispy edges.
4. Bake Until Golden and Tender
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. The potatoes should be golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.
5. Add Cheese (Optional)
If you want a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking. Return the dish to the oven just until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, smoky, and comforting meal!
Pro Tips:
- You can use any type of smoked sausage — beef, pork, turkey, or even andouille for a Cajun kick.
- For extra crispiness, bake the mixture on a sheet pan instead of a deep dish.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for more flavor and color.
- This dish pairs perfectly with a side of green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
