Sausage And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

There's something utterly comforting about the sizzle of sausage and potatoes in a hot skillet. The crispy edges, savory aroma, and the way the flavors mingle—this dish feels like a warm hug after a long day.

I discovered this recipe on a chilly fall evening when I needed something hearty, quick, and budget-friendly. Now, it’s my go-to whenever I want a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.

The best part? It all comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into why this Sausage and Potatoes Skillet deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

This one-pan wonder checks every box when it comes to weeknight dinners. Here’s why it stands out:

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. No complicated steps, no obscure ingredients—just straightforward cooking that delivers big flavor. If you can chop and stir, you can make this dish.

It’s also budget-friendly, relying on pantry staples and affordable ingredients like potatoes and smoked sausage. You probably already have most of what you need in your kitchen.

Then there’s the flavor factor. The sausage releases savory juices as it cooks, infusing the potatoes and onions with irresistible taste. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs takes it over the top.

Lastly, it’s family-approved and endlessly customizable. Add bell peppers, toss in spinach, or finish with shredded cheese—this recipe adapts to your cravings and your fridge contents.

Once you try it, you’ll be hooked. Let’s take a look at the simple ingredients that bring this dish to life.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this skillet lies in its simplicity. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how each ingredient shines:

Smoked sausage is the flavor backbone of this recipe. Whether you prefer kielbasa, andouille, or a turkey variety, the sausage adds richness and spice. Slice it into coins for fast, even cooking.

Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for this dish because of their creamy interior and golden, crisp-able edges. Russets or red potatoes work too—just be sure to cut them uniformly so they cook evenly.

Yellow onion adds sweetness and depth. As it caramelizes in the skillet, it mingles with the sausage fat to create an irresistible base flavor.

Garlic, while simple, brings a fragrant sharpness that enhances the overall dish. Add it in toward the end of cooking to keep it from burning.

Olive oil or butter helps achieve that golden, crispy texture. You’ll only need a few tablespoons, especially if your sausage renders a good amount of fat.

For equipment, all you really need is a large skillet—preferably cast iron—for the best heat retention and browning.

How To Make This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Making this dish is as easy as can be, and it all happens in one pan.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Scrub the potatoes clean and dice them into bite-sized cubes. Slice the sausage into rounds and thinly slice the onion. Keep the garlic aside for later.

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the potatoes. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to build that crispy edge, then stir occasionally until golden and tender—about 10-12 minutes.

Push the potatoes to one side and add the sausage to the empty part of the skillet. Let it brown for 2-3 minutes per side. Once the sausage is golden and sizzling, mix everything together.

Add the onions and let them soften and caramelize, about 5 minutes. When they start to turn golden, stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

If you're feeling fancy, sprinkle in smoked paprika or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or thyme. A dash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything beautifully.

The whole process takes about 25-30 minutes, and what you get is a golden, caramelized skillet of savory goodness.

Storage Options

This skillet meal stores beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers.

To store, let the skillet cool completely and then transfer the contents to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For freezing, portion the cooked sausage and potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Cover with a lid to help steam the potatoes back to life. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is to your preferences and pantry.

Try swapping the sausage with chicken sausage, Italian sausage, or even vegetarian sausage for a plant-based twist. You can also add crumbled cooked bacon for extra richness.

Want to mix up the vegetables? Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach all work wonderfully. Just add them during the last 5-10 minutes so they don’t overcook.

If you're a fan of spice, stir in red pepper flakes or use hot sausage instead of mild. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha before serving.

For a cheesy version, top everything with shredded cheddar or mozzarella during the last couple minutes of cooking. Cover the pan so it melts into gooey perfection.

Feeling indulgent? Crack a couple of eggs into the skillet and bake or cover until the whites are set—instant breakfast-for-dinner vibes.

Let this be your foundation and get creative with your favorite flavors!

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