Cheesy Sausage and Potato Bake – A Comforting, Flavorful One-Pan Dish

by

When it comes to easy, hearty meals, few things compare to a warm, cheesy sausage and potato bake fresh out of the oven. This dish is simple to prepare yet packed with rich flavors, featuring tender potatoes, savory sausage, and fresh asparagus, all baked together with melted cheddar cheese.

It’s the perfect family meal—wholesome, filling, and made with ingredients that are easy to find. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or even meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy One-Pan Meal – Minimal prep and cleanup.
  • Loaded with Flavor – Sausage, potatoes, garlic, and cheese create a deliciously comforting combination.
  • Perfect for Any Time of Day – Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
  • Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb of your favorite sausage, sliced – Use smoked, Italian, or turkey sausage for different flavor variations.
  • 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best.
  • 1 cup of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces – Adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture.
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced – Enhances the dish with a mild, sweet flavor.
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – Creates a rich, melty topping.
  • 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth – Helps cook the potatoes while adding flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil – Used for sautéing and roasting.
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme – Brings warmth and depth to the dish.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are nicely browned.
  3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes & Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then add the chopped potatoes.
  2. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to soften.
  3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring to combine. Continue cooking for 3-5 more minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer the cooked potatoes, onions, and sausage into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Gently mix in the asparagus to evenly distribute all ingredients.
  3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring it reaches the bottom of the dish.
  4. Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the potatoes to absorb the broth and soften further.

Step 6: Add the Cheese & Finish Baking

  1. Remove the foil from the baking dish.
  2. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  3. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

  1. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Make It Vegetarian

  • Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.

Try Different Vegetables

  • If asparagus isn’t your favorite, substitute it with sliced zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli.

Experiment with Cheese

  • While cheddar works beautifully, you can also try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

Make It Extra Creamy

  • Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the potato mixture before baking for an ultra-rich texture.

Add a Spicy Kick

  • For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy sausage and potato bake pairs wonderfully with:

  • A fresh garden salad – Light and refreshing to balance the richness.
  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up any extra cheese and juices.
  • A fried or poached egg – Turn it into a hearty breakfast option.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

  • This casserole freezes well. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
  • To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Reheating:

  • Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
  • For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Sausage and Potato Bake is a perfect go-to meal for busy days when you need something easy, comforting, and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that brings warmth to your table!

Leave a Comment