There’s just something so comforting about a hearty, one-pan meal, isn’t there? Especially when life gets crazy, and weeknight dinners need to be quick, satisfying, and, let’s be honest, involve minimal cleanup. That’s where this smoked sausage potatoes skillet comes in. I can practically smell it now – the smoky aroma of the sausage mingling with the earthy potatoes, all kissed with a touch of caramelized onion and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s a symphony of simple flavors that somehow always hits the spot.
This recipe has been a lifesaver on countless occasions. I remember one particularly chaotic week when both kids had school projects due, my husband was traveling, and I swear the laundry multiplied overnight. I was staring into the fridge, willing dinner to magically appear, when my eyes landed on a package of smoked sausage and a bag of potatoes. Inspiration struck! Within 30 minutes, this smoked sausage potatoes skillet was sizzling on the stove, filling the kitchen with its comforting scent.
Even my pickiest eater, my son, devoured it! He usually turns his nose up at anything with visible onions, but he didn’t even blink an eye. “Mom, this is amazing!” he declared, which, in his world, is high praise indeed. My daughter, who is always looking for a healthy option, loved that it was packed with protein and veggies. It was a win-win! The best part? One pan to wash. Hallelujah! This smoked sausage potatoes skillet became a regular feature on our dinner table, a testament to its simplicity and deliciousness.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected this recipe, adding little touches here and there to make it even better. I’ve learned a few tricks along the way – like how to get the potatoes perfectly crispy and how to prevent the sausage from drying out. And trust me, I’m spilling all the secrets in this post. I’ve had my share of kitchen fails, but this smoked sausage potatoes skillet is one recipe that I can always count on.
So, if you’re looking for a fuss-free, family-friendly meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further. This smoked sausage potatoes skillet is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your house, just like it is in mine. I can almost guarantee that this smoked sausage potatoes skillet will be gone in a heartbeat, so be prepared to make a double batch! If you’re ready to dig in, grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking! I know that this smoked sausage potatoes skillet is going to be a hit. You won’t regret making this smoked sausage potatoes skillet recipe; it’s an easy winner every time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious smoked sausage potatoes skillet. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty basic stuff that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: I usually use extra virgin olive oil, but any cooking oil will do. Sometimes, if I want a richer flavor, I’ll use a tablespoon of bacon fat leftover from breakfast. Adds a lovely smoky note!
- 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work best. I’m not usually a fan of red onions in this dish, but hey, if that’s all you have, go for it!
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced: I love using kielbasa for this smoked sausage potatoes skillet, but any smoked sausage will work. Andouille sausage will add a nice kick if you like a little spice. If you’re looking to save a bit, try to find it on sale.
- 1.5 pounds potatoes, diced: Russet potatoes are my go-to because they get nice and crispy, but Yukon Gold potatoes are also delicious. If you want to be a little healthier, sweet potatoes would be a great substitution. Make sure you dice them into roughly the same size so that they cook evenly! These are great in the smoked sausage potatoes skillet.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Fresh garlic is always great, but sometimes I’m just too lazy to chop it. Garlic powder is a convenient and flavorful substitute.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color. I especially love it when combined in a smoked sausage potatoes skillet.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely earthy flavor. You can substitute with other dried herbs, such as rosemary or oregano.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously! Remember, salt is your friend.
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Budget-friendly tip: Potatoes and onions are usually pretty inexpensive, so this is a great way to stretch your grocery budget. You can often find smoked sausage on sale, too, so keep an eye out for deals!
Storage hack: If you have leftover smoked sausage potatoes skillet, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and walk through how to make this smoked sausage potatoes skillet, step by step. Trust me, it’s super easy!
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat: Make sure your skillet is nice and big so that everything has enough room to cook evenly. I prefer to use cast iron for this smoked sausage potatoes skillet, but any large skillet will work.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes: Don’t rush this step! Cooking the onions until they’re soft and translucent is key to building flavor. Keep stirring them so they don’t burn.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes: This is when your kitchen will start to smell amazing! The smoked sausage will release its delicious smoky aroma, which will make you excited to move on. This step helps to render some of the fat from the sausage, adding even more flavor to the smoked sausage potatoes skillet.
- Add the diced potatoes, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme to the skillet: Stir everything together, making sure the potatoes are coated in the oil and spices. This is a great time to add a bit of salt and pepper as well.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the potatoes start to stick, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet. Keeping it covered traps the moisture and helps the potatoes cook through.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, about 5-10 minutes: This is the magic moment! Let the potatoes get nice and crispy for added flavor. I find that getting this just right elevates this smoked sausage potatoes skillet recipe.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste: Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, salt brings out the flavors!
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired: Adds a pop of color and freshness. A little goes a long way!
Cooking tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have too many potatoes, they will steam instead of brown. If you have a lot of potatoes, cook them in batches.
Family reaction: My kids love when the potatoes are extra crispy, so I sometimes leave them in the skillet a little longer to achieve maximum crispiness.
Meal prep insight: You can chop the onions and potatoes ahead of time to save time during the week. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
Leftover advice: Leftover smoked sausage potatoes skillet is delicious reheated for breakfast! Add a fried egg on top for extra protein.
Serving Ideas
This smoked sausage potatoes skillet is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal:
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans: Adds a healthy dose of veggies.
- Top with a fried egg: Adds extra protein and richness. The runny yolk is amazing when mixed with the potatoes and sausage.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a cool and tangy contrast to the smoky flavors.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would all be delicious.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices from the smoked sausage potatoes skillet.
Occasions: I make this smoked sausage potatoes skillet for weeknight dinners, casual weekend lunches, or even potlucks. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Leftover transformations: Use leftover smoked sausage potatoes skillet to make breakfast burritos or frittatas.
Portion sizes: This recipe makes about 4 servings, but it’s easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd.
Family feedback: My husband loves when I add a little bit of hot sauce to his portion. The kids prefer it without the heat. We love how customizable this smoked sausage potatoes skillet is!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this smoked sausage potatoes skillet recipe:
Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! Any smoked sausage will work, such as andouille, chorizo, or even chicken sausage. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the skillet.
Can I add other vegetables? Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet along with the potatoes. Feel free to throw in whatever you have in your fridge!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the smoked sausage. Add some extra vegetables, such as beans or lentils, for protein.
How can I make this recipe lower in sodium? Use low-sodium smoked sausage and reduce the amount of salt you add. You can also use salt-free seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, and thyme, to add flavor without the sodium.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can chop the vegetables and slice the sausage ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also cook the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? No problem! Any large skillet will work. Just make sure it’s oven-safe if you want to broil the potatoes for extra crispiness.
My potatoes are sticking to the skillet. What should I do? Add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to prevent sticking. Stir frequently and make sure the heat is not too high. I made the mistake of having my burner too high once and the smoked sausage potatoes skillet almost didn’t turn out!
Can I add cheese to the skillet? Absolutely! Cheese makes everything better! Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would all be delicious. The smoked sausage potatoes skillet with pepper jack cheese has a nice kick.
I don’t have dried thyme. What can I substitute? You can substitute dried thyme with other dried herbs, such as rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning. Use about ½ teaspoon of your chosen substitute.
Conclusion
This smoked sausage potatoes skillet is more than just a recipe to me; it’s a symbol of family dinners, busy weeknights, and the joy of creating something delicious with simple ingredients. It’s a recipe that has evolved over time, reflecting the changing tastes and preferences of my family. And it’s a recipe that I hope you’ll cherish and adapt to your own family’s needs and preferences.
Here are a few final tips to make this recipe a success:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the potatoes get nice and crispy.
- Season generously. Salt is your friend!
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and spices. Make this recipe your own!
My family loves to add different twists to this recipe. Sometimes, we’ll add a can of diced tomatoes for a bit of acidity. Other times, we’ll throw in some chopped bell peppers for added sweetness. The possibilities are endless! I hope you love this smoked sausage potatoes skillet recipe as much as my family and I do. This recipe for smoked sausage potatoes skillet is a keeper in my book!
Now, I want to hear from you! What are your favorite one-pan meals? Do you have any tips or tricks for making this smoked sausage potatoes skillet even better? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you try this recipe, be sure to let me know how it turns out. I can’t wait to hear from you! Enjoy making this smoked sausage potatoes skillet and be sure to come back to let me know what you think! Making this smoked sausage potatoes skillet is easy and enjoyable. I’m confident you’ll nail it!
Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet
This quick and easy Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet is a satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with savory smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and flavorful seasonings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-5 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
- Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the potatoes are tender and slightly browned, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
- Return the cooked smoked sausage to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of your favorite dipping sauce. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.