Oh, friend, let me tell you about my Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet! It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a memory etched in my mind of cozy weeknight dinners and the happy chatter of family gathered around the table. I can almost smell it now – the savory aroma of smoked sausage mingling with the earthy scent of potatoes, all sizzled to perfection in a cast-iron skillet. It’s a symphony of simple ingredients that come together to create pure comfort food.

I remember one particular evening, the kids were especially fussy, and dinner needed to be quick and easy. I was staring into the fridge, feeling utterly uninspired, when my eyes landed on a package of smoked sausage. That’s when the idea for a Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet popped into my head. I rummaged through the pantry, grabbed some potatoes, onions, and a few spices, and got to work. The result? A surprisingly delicious and satisfying meal that everyone devoured. From that night on, my Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet became a regular fixture in our dinner rotation.

It wasn’t always smooth sailing, though. I’ve definitely had my share of “aha” moments with this recipe. Like the time I accidentally added too much smoked paprika and turned the whole dish a fiery shade of red! Lesson learned: a little goes a long way. Or the time I forgot to preheat the skillet and ended up with soggy potatoes. Yuck! But hey, that’s all part of the fun of cooking, right? We learn from our mistakes and keep experimenting until we get it just right.

In my busy life as a mom, wife, and (let’s be honest) professional plate spinner, easy recipes are a lifesaver. And this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet? It’s as easy as it gets. It’s a one-pan wonder that requires minimal cleanup, which is always a win in my book. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your family’s taste by adding different veggies, spices, or even a splash of cream for extra richness. If you are looking for something a bit different you could also try something like Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet or Sausage Maple Waffle Bake.

I first started making this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet about ten years ago, and it’s been evolving ever since. I’ve tweaked the recipe countless times, adding new ingredients, adjusting the cooking time, and experimenting with different flavor combinations. But one thing has remained constant: the love my family has for this simple, satisfying meal.

So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! I promise you, this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet will become a new family favorite. It’s an easy sausage potato skillet that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy!

Ingredients for the Perfect Skillet

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy sausage potato skillet)

Now, when it comes to ingredients for my Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet, I always use Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor that I just adore. Plus, they hold their shape well during cooking, which is important for a skillet dish. You can usually find them at your local grocery store.

Here’s a Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet trick I learned from my mom: always pre-cook the potatoes slightly before adding them to the skillet. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from getting mushy. You can either boil them for a few minutes or microwave them until they’re slightly tender. Pre-cooking the potatoes ensures that they achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and slight browning, creating a delightful textural contrast in the final dish.

For the sausage, I typically go for a good quality smoked sausage, like kielbasa or andouille. But you can use any type of sausage you like. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the skillet. For cost-saving tips for Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet ingredients, consider buying sausage in bulk when it’s on sale and freezing it for later use. Potatoes also tend to be cheaper when they’re in season.

Ingredient prep shortcuts are a must for busy families making Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet. I often chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge until I’m ready to cook. You can even slice the sausage in advance to save even more time.

Storage tips for leftover Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet ingredients: Store uncooked potatoes in a cool, dark place to prevent them from sprouting. Onions and bell peppers can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Smoked sausage should be refrigerated and used within a few days.

And if you’re watching your carbs, you can easily make a keto smoked sausage skillet by swapping out the potatoes for cauliflower florets or diced radishes. Trust me, it’s just as delicious! The key is to find the right balance of flavors and textures to mimic the heartiness of the original recipe.

How to Make Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet – Step-by-Step

Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Don’t worry if you don’t have a cast-iron skillet; any large skillet will do. But I find that cast iron gives the potatoes a nice crispy crust. I like to let the skillet get nice and hot before adding the ingredients.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. If you overcrowd the pan, the sausage won’t brown properly. So, work in batches if necessary.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. I always like to add a pinch of salt to the onions to help them release their moisture and sweeten up. This step is crucial for building a flavorful foundation for the entire dish.
Add the cubed potatoes and chopped bell pepper to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned, about 15-20 minutes. In my kitchen, it usually takes about 20 minutes to cook the potatoes. But it can vary depending on the size of the cubes and the heat of your stove. Ensuring the potatoes are evenly browned adds a depth of flavor that elevates the skillet to a whole new level.
Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant. While the Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet is cooking, I usually take the opportunity to tidy up the kitchen or prep a side dish. Efficiency is key!
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Your Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet should smell like a combination of savory sausage, earthy potatoes, and smoky spices. It’s an aroma that will make your mouth water!
If you want to make a creamy sausage potato skillet, stir in the heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add richness and a luscious texture to the dish. The heavy cream not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful, glossy finish.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. And there you have it – a delicious and satisfying Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet that’s perfect for any night of the week! The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.

Family-tested Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet shortcuts or time-savers: Use pre-chopped vegetables, frozen diced potatoes, or fully cooked sausage to cut down on prep time. Another tip is to cook a big batch of this smoked sausage and potato one pan meal on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. This is a fantastic way to meal prep and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal even on the busiest weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

The kids love our Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet when I serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. It adds a creamy tanginess that complements the savory flavors of the dish perfectly. My husband, on the other hand, prefers his Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet with a drizzle of hot sauce. He likes the extra kick of spice!

My go-to side dishes that pair with Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet are a simple green salad or some steamed broccoli. They provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet. This Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a casual weekend brunch, or even a potluck gathering.

Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet presentation tips I’ve discovered: Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. Or, transfer it to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs for a more elegant look. For a more sophisticated touch, consider arranging the sausage and potatoes artfully on the serving dish.

If you have extra Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet, it makes a great filling for breakfast burritos or a topping for baked potatoes. You can also use it as a base for a hearty soup or stew. The versatility of this dish makes it a fantastic option for creative repurposing of leftovers.

Seasonal Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet variations I’ve tried: In the fall, I like to add roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the skillet. In the spring, I throw in some asparagus or peas. And in the summer, I add grilled corn or zucchini. The possibilities are endless! Experimenting with seasonal ingredients is a wonderful way to keep this dish fresh and exciting.

My friends always ask for this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet recipe whenever I make it for a gathering. It’s always a crowd-pleaser! I think it’s the combination of the simple ingredients, the satisfying flavors, and the easy preparation that makes it so appealing.

One way to turn this into smoked sausage and potato one pan meal is to simply use one pan for everything, making it easier to clean up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?

A: Absolutely! While I prefer Yukon Gold potatoes for my Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet, you can use any type of potato you like. Russet potatoes will give you a more starchy texture, while red potatoes will hold their shape better. It’s really a matter of personal preference. I’ve even seen folks experiment with sweet potatoes for a sweeter take on this classic Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet!

Q: Can I make this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can! You can prepare the skillet up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the skillet or microwave until heated through. Just be aware that the potatoes may become a little softer if you make it ahead of time. To minimize the softening, consider slightly undercooking the potatoes initially.

Q: Can I freeze this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet?

A: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the potatoes tend to become mushy when thawed. However, if you have leftovers that you absolutely want to freeze, make sure to store them in an airtight container and use them within a month or two. If you do freeze it, consider using the thawed mixture in a soup or stew where the texture is less critical.

Q: What if my potatoes are taking too long to cook?

A: You know what I do when my Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet potatoes aren’t cooking fast enough? I cover the skillet with a lid. This will trap the heat and help the potatoes cook more quickly. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to create some steam.

Q: Can I add cheese to this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet?

A: Of course! Cheese is always a welcome addition to any dish, in my opinion. I especially like adding shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese to this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet. For an extra layer of flavor, try using a smoked cheese like Gouda or Gruyere.

Q: Is this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free smoked sausage. Always check the label to be sure. With the increasing availability of gluten-free products, finding suitable sausage options should be relatively easy.

Q: Can I make this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet vegetarian?

A: You can easily adapt this recipe to make it vegetarian by substituting the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or adding more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. I’ve tried it with portobello mushrooms, and it was surprisingly delicious! You could also add some smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor profile.

Final Thoughts and Pro Tips

This Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of simple, home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and always brings a smile to my face. This easy sausage potato skillet is a must for the recipe books!

My Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet Pro Tips:

Don’t overcrowd the skillet: This will prevent the ingredients from browning properly.
Pre-cook the potatoes: This will help them cook more evenly.
Season generously: Salt, pepper, and spices are your friends!

Here are a few Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet variations I’ve tried with my family:

Spicy Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
Cheesy Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet: Stir in shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Creamy Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet: Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.

My husband loves the spicy version, while the kids prefer the cheesy version. I personally enjoy the creamy version – it’s just so decadent!

I hope you enjoy making this Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet as much as my family does. It’s a simple, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun. So, don’t be afraid to try new things, tweak the recipe to your liking, and make it your own. Most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something delicious for yourself and your loved ones. This Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet will not let you down. I have confidence that this recipe will bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to your dinner table.

Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet

Print Recipe

This Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s packed with smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and delicious seasonings.

Author: Zoubida
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1.5 pounds potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly browned, stirring occasionally.
Add the minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Return the smoked sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve this skillet dish with a side of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving.