This Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake with Sour Cream and Cheese is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of smoked sausage, crispy potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy topping. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with family and friends. The crispy potatoes, tender eggs, and tangy sour cream bring great texture and flavor to this dish, making it a comforting and filling meal.
Preparation, Cooking, and Total Times:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Cuisine: Comfort Food, European-Inspired
Ingredients:
- 4-5 potatoes, peeled and cut into thin slices
- Some vegetable oil (for greasing and roasting)
- Dried ground sweet paprika, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Dried ground garlic, to taste
- 4 chicken eggs
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- A bunch of spring onions, chopped
- 200 g sour cream
- 4-5 cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 3 smoked sausages, sliced
- 100 g hard cheese, grated (cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you prefer)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Aim for even slices to ensure they cook evenly.
- Line a baking tray with baking paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Spread the sliced potatoes on the baking tray, drizzle with vegetable oil, and sprinkle with salt, dried ground sweet paprika, and dried ground garlic. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.
2. Roast the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes at 200°C (390°F), or until the potatoes are slightly tender and starting to crisp on the edges.
3. Prepare the Eggs:
- While the potatoes are roasting, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
4. Sauté the Spring Onions and Sausages:
- Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped spring onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add the sliced smoked sausages to the pan and cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and slightly crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- After the potatoes have roasted for 20 minutes, remove the tray from the oven.
- Spread the sautéed spring onions and sausages evenly over the potatoes.
- Pour the whisked eggs over the potato and sausage mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
- Add spoonfuls of sour cream on top of the eggs and sprinkle with grated hard cheese.
6. Add the Tomato Topping:
- Slice the cherry tomatoes and arrange them on top of the dish.
7. Bake the Casserole:
- Lower the oven temperature to 180°C (355°F) and place the baking tray back into the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the eggs are set, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs or a side of salad if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
-
With a Simple Salad:
Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or arugula to balance out the richness of the potatoes, sausage, and cheese. -
With Garlic Bread:
For an indulgent touch, serve alongside some garlic bread to scoop up the creamy bits from the casserole. -
Pair with a Drink:
Enjoy this hearty meal with a refreshing cold beer, or for a non-alcoholic option, a glass of iced tea or sparkling water would complement the dish nicely. -
As a Meal Prep Option:
This dish is great for making ahead. Prepare it in the evening, then store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it the next day for a quick, easy meal.
Health Benefits:
-
Rich in Protein:
The eggs and smoked sausage provide a solid source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall energy levels. -
Packed with Nutrients:
Potatoes provide fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, supporting heart health and digestion. Spring onions and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which help boost immune function. -
Calcium-Rich:
The cheese and sour cream provide calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth, as well as muscle function. -
Healthy Fats:
The use of olive oil and cheese adds healthy fats to the dish, promoting overall well-being when consumed in moderation.
Cooking Tips:
-
Ensure Even Potato Slices:
To ensure even cooking, try to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible. You can use a mandolin slicer for uniform slices if you have one. -
Don’t Overcrowd the Potatoes:
When roasting the potatoes, spread them out in a single layer on the baking tray. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than roast, which can prevent them from becoming crispy. -
Customize the Sausage:
If you prefer a spicier dish, use chorizo or another spicy sausage. For a milder option, you can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage. -
Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish:
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten the dish and add a fresh pop of color and flavor. Sprinkle them on top before serving. -
Make it Vegetarian:
Omit the smoked sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Variations to Try:
-
Spicy Version:
Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the dish for a spicy twist. -
Cheese Variations:
Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, parmesan, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. -
Add More Vegetables:
Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful. -
Bacon Option:
Add crispy bacon bits to the mixture for extra flavor and crunch.
Conclusion:
This Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake with Sour Cream and Cheese is a satisfying and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, lunch, or as part of a larger spread, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the rich flavors of roasted potatoes, creamy cheese, savory sausage, and fresh tomatoes in this simple, yet delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
-
Can I use regular sausages instead of smoked sausages?
Yes, you can use regular sausages, but smoked sausages add a unique flavor to the dish. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I substitute the potatoes with another vegetable?
Yes, you can substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or even cauliflower for a lower-carb version. -
How do I prevent the potatoes from getting soggy?
Make sure to roast the potatoes first until they are slightly crispy before adding the other ingredients. -
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven to retain the crispy texture. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli would all work well in this dish. -
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and replace it with mushrooms, tofu, or another plant-based protein. -
Can I use non-dairy substitutes?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free version of this dish. -
How can I make the dish spicier?
You can add chili flakes, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for later use.