Hearty Potato and Sausage Bake

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Introduction

Hearty Potato and Sausage Bake is a robust and satisfying one-pan meal that combines crispy roasted potatoes, savory sausages, and colorful vegetables, all seasoned to perfection and baked until golden brown. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy Sunday brunches and will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of tender potatoes, juicy sausages, and caramelized onions and peppers is enhanced by a blend of herbs and a hint of garlic, making every bite full of flavor and comfort. Serve it as is, or with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal!

Ingredients Quantity

  • Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: 4 large, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Smoked sausage or Italian sausage: 1 pound, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • Red bell pepper: 1, sliced into strips
  • Green bell pepper: 1, sliced into strips
  • Onion: 1 large, cut into wedges
  • Carrots: 2 medium, cut into ½-inch slices
  • Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
  • Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)

Optional Ingredients

  • Zucchini: 1, sliced into rounds (for extra veggies)
  • Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved (for a burst of acidity)
  • Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated (for topping)
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon (for a zesty finish)
  • Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon (to drizzle before baking for depth of flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables and Sausages: Place the cubed potatoes, sliced sausage, bell peppers, onion, and carrots in a large bowl.
  3. Season the Ingredients: Add the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl. Toss everything together until the sausage and vegetables are evenly coated.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the seasoned sausage and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Make sure the potatoes are spread out and not piled up to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Tender: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sausages are cooked through, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. For extra crispy potatoes, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
  6. Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the bake in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a cheesy crust. Alternatively, add cherry tomatoes or zucchini rounds halfway through the baking time for added color and flavor.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of freshness before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Even Slicing: Cut the potatoes and vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even roasting and prevent some ingredients from overcooking.
  • Sausage Selection: Choose a sausage that complements your flavor preferences—smoked sausage adds a robust, savory note, while Italian sausage can add a bit of spice.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the mixture out evenly on the baking dish. Overcrowding will cause the ingredients to steam instead of roast, resulting in less crispy potatoes.
  • Flavor Enhancements: For added depth, marinate the potatoes and vegetables in the seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking.

Recommendations

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a side of crusty garlic bread, a simple green salad, or a dollop of sour cream or Dijon mustard for dipping.
  • Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain crispiness.
  • Make it a Full Meal: Add protein options like cubed chicken breast or tofu to the mix, or stir in some cooked pasta for a hearty casserole-style dish.

Enjoy this comforting and satisfying Hearty Potato and Sausage Bake—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to please any crowd!

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