Are you ready to transform ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds? This Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that combines the hearty flavors of Polish cuisine with irresistible cheesy goodness. Imagine tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and a blanket of melted cheddar that creates a comfort food experience so delicious, it'll become an instant family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Polish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then dice them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Place the diced potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice the kielbasa into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Finely chop the onion, separating the pieces to distribute evenly throughout the dish.
- Add the sliced kielbasa and chopped onion to the bowl with the potatoes. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the mixture, then toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Transfer the potato and kielbasa mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to promote consistent cooking.
- In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese with milk to create a creamy sauce. Pour this cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes and kielbasa.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent excessive browning.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the top to become golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Potato Perfection: Cut potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Inconsistent sizes can lead to some pieces being undercooked while others are mushy.
- Cheese Sauce Trick: Mix the cheese with milk before pouring to create a smoother, more evenly distributed sauce.
- Prevent Dryness: Covering the dish with foil for most of the cooking time helps retain moisture and prevents the top from burning.
- Let It Rest: Always allow the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes serving much easier.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or add some smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, then baked when you're ready to eat—perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 417kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 62mg
