There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy potato bake fresh from the oven on a chilly evening. Add savory sausage to the mix, and you’ve got a meal that’s not just filling—it’s a hug on a plate. This Creamy Sausage & Potato Bake combines tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to assemble, yet the layers of cream, cheese, and sausage make it feel indulgent and restaurant-quality.
Ingredients
For the Bake:
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 400g sausage, sliced or crumbled (your choice of flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the potatoes by washing, peeling, and slicing them into thin, even rounds to ensure even cooking. Slice or crumble your sausage and chop onions and garlic for maximum flavor infusion.
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter, then sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the sausage and cook until lightly browned. This step intensifies the flavors before layering the bake.
Assembling the Bake
Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or oil. Begin with a layer of potato slices at the bottom, slightly overlapping them. Spread half of the cooked sausage mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with a pinch of thyme, salt, and pepper.
Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of potatoes on top. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the dish and top with shredded cheese. The cream will soak into the potatoes while baking, creating a rich, velvety texture.
Baking Instructions
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. Removing the foil during the last 10 minutes allows the cheese to brown beautifully and form a golden crust. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the sauce should bubble gently around the edges.
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle more cheese on top halfway through baking or add a dash of paprika for a subtle smoky note. Once baked, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the layers set slightly and makes it easier to portion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bake hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese for a festive touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
It also reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping for the week. Each bite offers creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and a cheesy finish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Tips for the Perfect Bake
- Slice potatoes evenly: This ensures all layers cook uniformly.
- Don’t skip sautéing sausage: Browning enhances flavor and releases some fat for extra richness.
- Use a mix of cheeses: Cheddar adds tang, mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess.
- Adjust cream for preference: For a lighter version, reduce heavy cream slightly or substitute with milk.
- Cover while baking: Prevents the top from burning before the potatoes are tender.
Optional Add-Ons and Variations
You can customize this bake to suit your taste:
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper for a touch of heat.
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or ham if desired.
- Use sweet potatoes or a mix of white and Yukon gold potatoes for a sweeter, richer flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sausage & Potato Bake is comfort food at its finest. The combination of tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and melted cheese creates a hearty, satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make.
Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or cozy nights in, it’s a dish that pleases all ages and requires minimal effort for maximum results.
Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a special weekend treat, this bake is guaranteed to become a household favorite, delivering warmth, flavor, and happiness with every bite.
