Polish Smoked Sausage and Potato Bake
A comforting and easy one-pan bake featuring slices of flavorful Polish smoked sausage (kiełbasa), tender potatoes, sweet onions, and a hint of garlic, all baked until golden and slightly crispy. This dish is a testament to simple, satisfying Polish home cooking.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Polish smoked sausage (kiełbasa)
- 700 g Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 medium Onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Dried marjoram
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
💡 Tip: Using a cast-iron skillet can help achieve a nice crispy bottom. - 2
Slice the Polish smoked sausage into ½ cm thick rounds.
💡 Tip: Ensure the sausage is firm enough to slice cleanly. - 3
In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, sliced onions, minced garlic, vegetable oil (or lard), smoked paprika, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
💡 Tip: Marjoram is a classic herb pairing with potatoes and sausage in Polish cuisine. - 4
Arrange half of the seasoned potato and onion mixture in the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
💡 Tip: Starting with a layer of potatoes helps prevent the sausage from sticking to the bottom. - 5
Layer the sliced kielbasa evenly over the potato mixture.
💡 Tip: Distribute the sausage pieces so each serving gets a good amount. - 6
Top with the remaining seasoned potato and onion mixture, spreading it evenly.
💡 Tip: Ensure the top layer is also seasoned well. - 7
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or a lid.
💡 Tip: Covering the dish steams the potatoes and sausage, making them tender. - 8
Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil/lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
💡 Tip: Uncovering allows the top to brown and crisp up. - 9
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
💡 Tip: Fresh parsley adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a good quality Polish smoked sausage (kiełbasa) for the best flavor. Varieties like 'wiejska' or 'śląska' work well.
- ✓If you prefer a creamier dish, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk before baking.
- ✓For extra flavor, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard can be mixed into the potato and onion seasoning.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add sliced bell peppers (red or green) to the vegetable mixture for added color and flavor.
- Incorporate a layer of sauerkraut for a tangy twist.
- Serve with a side of sour cream or a simple cucumber salad (mizeria).