Cheesy Sausage and Potato Bake

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) of Italian sausage, casings removed
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 2 pounds)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups (240g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
4. In the greased baking dish, create an even layer by spreading half of the sliced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Layer half of the sausage mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of half the shredded cheese.
6. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, sausage mixture, and cheese.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and chicken broth and pour evenly over the layered ingredients.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender.
10. Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or crumbled bacon if desired.