Description
Roasted Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
This recipe is a comforting meal that brings together the rich flavors of smoked sausage, roasted potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. A dinner that will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients:
1 package smoked sausage, sliced
1 onion, chopped
5 large potatoes, diced
Olive oil
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Sweet paprika
Dried thyme
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking tray with foil, drizzling with olive oil.
In a large bowl, toss sausage, potatoes, and onions with olive oil and seasoning.
Spread out on the baking tray and roast for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and bake until melted.
#CheesyComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced smoked sausage, diced potatoes, and chopped onion. Drizzle generously with olive oil (about 2-3 tablespoons). Season with sea salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and dried thyme. Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
3. Roast: Spread the mixture in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. For even cooking and browning, use a spatula to stir and flip the ingredients halfway through the cooking time.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the tray from the oven. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the tray to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes after removing it from the oven, then serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides to round out the dinner. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a side of tangy coleslaw also make excellent accompaniments. For a casual gathering, serve directly from the baking sheet at the table.
How-to Summary
This one-pan meal is simple: toss sausage, potatoes, and onion with oil and spices, roast at 400°F for 45 minutes (stirring once), then top with cheddar cheese and melt. It’s a minimal-prep, maximum-flavor dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely. Andouille, Kielbasa, or even a chicken sausage will work. Adjust cooking time slightly for pre-cooked vs. raw sausages.
How do I get my potatoes crispier? Ensure they are dried after dicing, don’t overcrowd the pan, and use enough oil. Parboiling the diced potatoes for 5 minutes before roasting can also create a fluffier interior and crispier exterior.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can chop the ingredients ahead and store them separately in the fridge. For best results, combine and roast just before serving. Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.
What are good spice alternatives? Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a Cajun seasoning blend are fantastic substitutes or additions to the listed spices.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots are great additions. Add softer veggies (like zucchini) in the last 15 minutes of roasting to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Spreading the ingredients in a single layer is crucial for proper roasting. Use two trays if necessary.
- Uneven Chopping: Dice the potatoes and onion into similar-sized pieces to ensure everything cooks at the same rate.
- Skipping the Midway Stir: Stirring halfway through is essential for even browning and preventing sticking.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. For the best melt, grate a block of cheese yourself.
Conclusion
This Roasted Smoked Sausage and Potatoes recipe is the epitome of easy, satisfying comfort food. With minimal prep and cleanup, it delivers a flavorful, cheesy, and hearty meal that is endlessly adaptable to your taste. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that proves simple ingredients, when roasted together, can create something truly special for any night of the week.
