**1. Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish or line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
**2. Prepare the Ingredients:**
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, onion, bell pepper, and smoked sausage. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
**3. Season the Dish:**
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Toss again to ensure even seasoning.
**4. Bake:**
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
**5. Add Cheese (Optional):**
- If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking. Allow it to melt and become bubbly.
**6. Garnish and Serve:**
- Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!