Craving a creamy, cheesy delight? Potatoes Au Gratin with Smoked Sausage is your answer! This hearty dish combines tender potatoes and smoky sausage in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or potlucks. In this article, I’ll guide you through the best ingredients, step-by-step cooking tips, and some fun variations. Get ready for a meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
What Ingredients Do You Need for Potatoes Au Gratin with Smoked Sausage?
To make Potatoes Au Gratin with Smoked Sausage, you need simple yet tasty ingredients. The heart of this cheesy potato casserole is russet potatoes. I love using four large ones, peeled and sliced thinly. They cook evenly and hold their shape well.
Next, add smoked sausage. I often choose kielbasa or andouille. You need one cup, sliced. This gives the dish a nice smoky flavor.
For the cheesy goodness, gather two cups of sharp cheddar cheese. This cheese melts beautifully and adds richness. Also, use half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
You cannot forget the creamy base! Combine one cup of heavy cream and one cup of milk for a rich sauce.
Add three cloves of minced garlic for aroma and flavor. Smoked paprika and thyme are key spices too. Use one teaspoon of each. They brighten the dish and add depth.
Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. You will also need butter to grease the baking dish. A sprinkle of green onions for garnish adds color and freshness.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful meal. For the full recipe, check out the details above. This dish is sure to be a hit!
How Do You Prepare Potatoes Au Gratin with Smoked Sausage?
To make this creamy delight, you need to follow some simple steps. First, gather your ingredients. You will need russet potatoes, smoked sausage, cheese, cream, and spices.
What Are the Steps to Prepare the Dish?
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. In a bowl, mix together heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk this until it is well combined.
Now, slice your potatoes thinly and layer half of them in the baking dish. Place the slices slightly overlapping for even cooking. Next, add half of your smoked sausage over the potatoes. Pour half of the cream mixture over this layer. Then, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes and sausage. Pour the rest of the cream mixture and top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy crust.
How Should You Layer the Ingredients?
Layering is key to a great Potatoes Au Gratin. Start with potatoes, then sausage, then creamy sauce, and finally cheese. Ensure you cover each layer well. This helps all the flavors blend nicely.
Make sure the last layer is cheese. It will melt and create a golden crust. This is what makes the dish so appealing.
What Baking Tips Should You Follow?
Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps moisture and helps the potatoes cook evenly. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped green onions just before serving. Enjoy this rich, creamy dish with family and friends! You can find the full recipe [here](#).