Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together smoky sausage slices, tender roasted potatoes, and a mix of your favorite veggies all baked to golden perfection. It’s simple but full of flavor, with just the right balance of crispy edges and soft insides that make every bite satisfying.
I love how easy this meal is to throw together, especially on busy weeknights. I usually toss all the ingredients in one baking dish, sprinkle on some herbs and cheese, and let the oven do the work. It feels like magic when it comes out bubbling and perfectly cooked without much effort on my part.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this bake is with a side of fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the tasty juices. It’s a dish that always feels like a warm hug after a long day, and I find that it’s a big hit with the whole family every time I make it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: This is the star that gives the dish its smoky, savory flavor. If you want it less smoky, try smoked chicken sausage or even kielbasa. For a veggie option, smoked tofu or plant-based sausage works well here.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape when baked. You can swap in russets but expect a fluffier inside and crisper edges. Slice them evenly for even cooking.
Herbs & Spices: Smoked paprika adds warmth and depth, but you can replace it with regular paprika if needed. Fresh thyme brings brightness—if unavailable, dried works fine, just use less as it’s more concentrated.
Cheese (Optional): Adding cheddar or mozzarella gives a melty, golden finish. For dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or vegan cheese. The bake tastes great even without cheese if preferred.
How Can I Get Crispy, Tender Potatoes Without Drying Out the Sausage?
The key is layering and timing. Here’s how to nail it:
- Slice Evenly: Cut potatoes about 1/4 inch thick so they cook through without becoming mushy.
- Toss with Oil and Spices: This helps them roast crisp and flavorful.
- Cover Until Almost Done: Cover the dish with foil for most of the baking time to trap steam that softens potatoes.
- Uncover to Crisp: Remove foil at the end to let sausage edges and potato tops brown and crisp up.
- Optional Cheese Layer: Adding cheese last adds a tasty, crispy crust without drying the sausage.
Following these steps balances tender, soft potatoes with sausage that’s perfectly browned and juicy. A little patience at the foil stage makes a big difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy roasting of all ingredients together.
- Large mixing bowl – to toss the sausage, potatoes, and seasonings evenly without making a mess.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice the sausage and potatoes evenly for balanced cooking.
- Cutting board – a stable surface makes chopping safer and quicker.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish to keep moisture in while baking.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle hot dishes when checking or removing from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap smoked sausage with kielbasa or chorizo for a different smoky note and extra spice.
- Add bell peppers or zucchini slices for freshness and a pop of color.
- Mix in some cooked beans like cannellini or kidney beans to make it more filling and add fiber.
- Top with shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a melty, spicy twist at the end of baking.
How to Make Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1½ lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 45-55 minutes for baking, including time covered with foil and then uncovered for crisping. Plan for about an hour total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add sliced smoked sausage, potatoes, onions, minced garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Pour in olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together gently until all pieces are well coated with the seasonings and oil.
3. Arrange and Bake Covered:
Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Place some sausage and potato slices on top for better browning. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork.
4. Uncover, Add Cheese, and Finish Baking:
Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, if you like. Put the dish back in the oven uncovered for 10-15 more minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Serve warm with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage or Potatoes for This Bake?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw frozen sausage in the fridge overnight and allow frozen potatoes to thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent a soggy bake.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep potatoes moist if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Bake?
Yes! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just be sure to slice them similarly and adjust baking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.