Oven Roasted Smoked Sausage and Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the oven reaches the desired temperature before you start cooking, allowing the ingredients to roast evenly and develop a rich, golden color.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet
   Line a large baking sheet with tin foil, and spray it with cooking spray. Lining the sheet with foil makes cleanup easier, while the cooking spray prevents the ingredients from sticking, ensuring they cook evenly and brown nicely.
3. Cut and Prepare the Ingredients
   Cut the smoked turkey sausage into large chunks. This allows the sausage to cook through evenly and develop a rich, smoky flavor as it roasts.
   Chop the onion into large chunks. The larger pieces help the onion retain its shape and sweetness during roasting, adding a delightful contrast to the savory sausage and potatoes.
   Wash and pat dry the baby potatoes. Cutting the potatoes in half ensures they cook evenly and develop a tender, creamy texture.
4. Combine the Ingredients
   In a large bowl, add the sausage, onions, and baby potatoes. This helps to distribute the ingredients evenly, ensuring they roast uniformly and absorb the flavors of the spices and olive oil.
   Top the sausage mixture with olive oil, and toss to coat. The olive oil helps the ingredients to roast evenly, developing a beautiful golden color and enhancing their natural flavors.
5. Add the Spices
   In a small bowl, combine the fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun spice. Mixing the spices in advance ensures they are evenly distributed, providing a consistent flavor throughout the dish.
   Sprinkle the sausage mixture with the seasoning mixture, and toss to coat. This step ensures that each piece of sausage and potato is evenly coated with the flavorful spices, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
6. Spread and Roast
   Pour the sausage and potato mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. This allows the ingredients to cook evenly and develop a crispy, golden exterior.
   Place the pan in the preheated oven and cook for 55 minutes. Roasting at 400°F allows the potatoes to become tender and the sausage to develop a rich, smoky flavor.
7. Check for Doneness
   After 55 minutes, test the potatoes by inserting a fork into them to ensure they are tender and fully cooked. The potatoes should be soft and easily pierced with a fork.
   If the potatoes are not yet tender, cook for an additional 5 minutes. This extra time ensures that the potatoes are fully cooked and have a creamy, tender texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the potatoes are tender and the sausage is beautifully browned, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   Serve the Oven Roasted Smoked Sausage and Potatoes warm, enjoying the delicious combination of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and flavorful spices. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Tips for the Perfect Roasted Sausage and Potatoes

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, potatoes, and sausage ensure the best flavor and texture. Avoid using pre-packaged or pre-cooked ingredients, as they may not roast as well or develop the same rich flavors.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spreading the ingredients out on the baking sheet allows them to roast evenly and develop a crispy, golden exterior. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in a softer texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend to suit your taste. Adding a touch of garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme can enhance the overall flavor and add a unique twist to the dish.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this hearty dish with a light, refreshing side salad to balance the rich flavors and add a touch of freshness to your meal.

Oven Roasted Smoked Sausage and Potatoes is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and flavorful spices creates a comforting meal that’s sure to please. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe with your loved ones, and savor the delightful flavors of this hearty dish.