Fresh Sausage & Cheddar Potato Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Dish for Every Meal!

Photo byAngie Bright

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of sausage, potatoes, and cheese in a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. The Fresh Sausage & Cheddar Potato Bake is that perfect mix of comfort and flavor, bringing together hearty ingredients in a simple but delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

The Comfort of a Classic

Imagine layers of thinly sliced potatoes, mixed with savory sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a touch of sour cream for extra creaminess. Every bite of this dish is a combination of tender potatoes and the bold, rich flavors of sausage. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings when you want something filling but easy to prepare.

Potato bakes have been a staple in many homes because of their simplicity and versatility, and this one brings the flavors of fresh sausage and sharp cheddar to the forefront. The dish is adaptable too – you can swap out different types of sausage or cheese based on what you have on hand, making it an ideal "what’s-in-the-fridge" meal. Yet, no matter the combination, it remains a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.

Recipe: Fresh Sausage & Cheddar Potato Bake

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh sausage, cooked and sliced or crumbled
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked sausage, thinly sliced potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to help the potatoes cook evenly and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling on top.
6. Let the potato bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness if desired.

This Fresh Sausage & Cheddar Potato Bake makes for a filling dinner on its own or can be served alongside a crisp green salad for a more balanced meal. It's the perfect comfort food for any time of the year.

Conclusion

Sausage and potatoes have long been a beloved pairing in kitchens around the world, and this dish takes that classic duo to a new level with the addition of sharp cheddar cheese and creamy sour cream. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice when you need a comforting, hearty meal. Whether it's for a family dinner or a cozy night in, the Fresh Sausage & Cheddar Potato Bake will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Here are some great sources for variations and methods on making a sausage and cheddar potato bake or casserole:

1. The Midnight Baker offers a Cheesy Sausage and Potatoes Casserole recipe, which is easy to prepare with shredded potatoes and a creamy cheese sauce. You can customize the recipe with ingredients like Velveeta, or substitute it with cheddar cheese if preferred​(Bake At Midnite).
2. Insanely Good Recipes shares a detailed Sausage Potato Casserole that layers sausage, potatoes, and a flavorful sauce. They suggest using cheddar or even mixing cheeses like Gruyère for an extra cheesy twist​(Insanely Good Recipes).
3. Back to My Southern Roots has a Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole that brings together diced potatoes, smoked sausage, and a rich cheese sauce. This version also allows you to swap in different ingredients like green peppers or even Velveeta for variation​(Back to My Southern Roots).
4. Taste of Home provides a comforting Potato Sausage Casserole, which includes layers of potatoes, sausage, and cheddar cheese. The recipe includes tips for modifying with vegetarian options or adding Tex-Mex flavors​(Taste of Home).

These resources should give you a range of ideas for preparing your Fresh Sausage & Cheddar Potato Bake, along with helpful cooking tips and potential ingredient substitutions.