Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet – A Hearty One-Pan Meal

Looking for an easy, satisfying, and flavor-packed dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes? This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal! Tender, crispy potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and sautéed onions and peppers create a comforting dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

This skillet meal is budget-friendly, customizable, and packed with smoky, garlicky goodness. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing brunch dish, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ One-Pan & Easy Clean-Up – Everything cooks in a single skillet!
✔ Hearty & Filling – Loaded with protein, carbs, and flavor.
✔ Customizable – Switch up the sausage, veggies, or seasonings.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Tastes just as good the next day!

What Does This Dish Taste Like?

This smoky, savory, and slightly crispy skillet meal is pure comfort food. The golden-brown potatoes soak up all the garlicky, buttery goodness, while the smoked sausage adds a deep, rich flavor. The onions and peppers bring a touch of sweetness and crunch, making each bite perfectly balanced.

Benefits of This Recipe

High in Protein & Fiber – A well-rounded, filling meal.
Naturally Gluten-Free – No flour, just simple whole ingredients.
Low-Cost & Efficient – Uses pantry staples and one pan.
Perfect for Any Meal – Serve for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Easily Scaled Up – Double the ingredients for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

To make this delicious and easy skillet meal, you’ll need:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds (Andouille, kielbasa, or turkey sausage)
• 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes, halved (or Russet potatoes, diced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Necessary Tools

✔ Large skillet (cast iron or nonstick preferred)
✔ Sharp knife (for slicing sausage and potatoes)
✔ Cutting board
✔ Wooden spoon or spatula
✔ Measuring spoons & cups

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions for Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

This recipe is super versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some great ingredient swaps and additions to try:

1. Potato Options

• Baby Potatoes – Creamy and hold their shape well.
• Russet Potatoes – Starchier, crispier when pan-fried.
• Yukon Gold – Soft inside, crispy outside, perfect for skillet dishes.
• Sweet Potatoes – Adds a slightly sweet contrast to the smoky sausage.
• Frozen Diced Potatoes – A great time-saver! No need to parboil—just sauté straight from frozen.

2. Sausage Variations

• Andouille Sausage – Spicy and smoky, great for a Cajun twist.
• Kielbasa – Mild, slightly sweet, and works well with potatoes.
• Chicken or Turkey Sausage – A leaner option, still packed with flavor.
• Chorizo – Adds a bold, slightly spicy kick.
• Vegan Sausage – Plant-based options work great for a meatless version.

3. Extra Vegetables (Boost nutrition and flavor!)

• Bell Peppers – Sweet and colorful, adds crunch.
• Onions – A must-have! Caramelizes beautifully in the pan.
• Mushrooms – Earthy and meaty, pairs well with smoked sausage.
• Zucchini or Squash – Lightens up the dish with a fresh taste.
• Spinach or Kale – Stir in at the end for extra greens.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a juicy, slightly sweet burst of flavor.

4. Spice & Seasoning Enhancements

• Cajun Seasoning – Adds bold, smoky spice.
• Red Pepper Flakes or Cayenne – Kick up the heat!
• Garlic Butter – Swap olive oil for garlic-infused butter for rich flavor.
• Paprika (Smoked or Sweet) – Enhances the smoky flavor of the sausage.
• Worcestershire Sauce or Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami.

5. Cheese Additions (For an extra indulgent touch!)

• Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the potatoes.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty bite.
• Monterey Jack or Gouda – Creamy and mild, pairs well with smoked sausage.

6. Protein Boosts

• Eggs – Top with a fried or poached egg for a breakfast version.
• Bacon or Ham – Adds extra smokiness and crispiness.
• Ground Turkey or Beef – Can replace sausage for a different take.

7. Low-Carb / Keto-Friendly Swaps

• Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets, radishes, or turnips for a low-carb alternative.

How to Make Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the potatoes in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Pour in chicken broth, cover, and let the potatoes steam for 5 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

• Push the potatoes to one side of the pan. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions & Peppers

• Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

• Toss everything together, letting the flavors meld for 2 more minutes.
• Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve with Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

✔ Eggs – Perfect for breakfast or brunch.
✔ Crusty Bread – Great for soaking up the juices.
✔ Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty flavors.
✔ Steamed Rice or Quinoa – To make it even more filling.
✔ Coleslaw or Pickles – Adds a tangy balance.

Helpful Tips for Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

1. Get Crispy Potatoes

• Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding—the potatoes need space to crisp up.
• Cook the potatoes in butter and olive oil for the best texture.
• Let them sit without stirring for a few minutes at a time to develop a golden-brown crust.

2. Speed Up Cooking Time

• Steam the potatoes by covering the pan for a few minutes—this helps them soften faster.
• If using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, dice them small (½-inch pieces) so they cook quickly.
• Pre-boil the potatoes for 5 minutes before sautéing if you’re short on time.

3. Brown the Sausage for Extra Flavor

• Let the sausage cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a nice sear before stirring.
• If using lean turkey or chicken sausage, add a little more oil to prevent sticking.

4. Customize the Seasoning

• Add Cajun seasoning for a spicier, Southern-style dish.
• Use garlic butter instead of regular butter for extra richness.
• Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.

5. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables

• Add bell peppers and onions toward the end of cooking to keep them slightly crisp.
• If adding greens like spinach or kale, stir them in just before serving so they don’t wilt too much.

6. Make It a One-Pan Meal

• Add eggs on top for a breakfast-style skillet.
• Stir in cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack) for extra creaminess.
• Serve over rice or quinoa to make it even more filling.

7. Perfect for Meal Prep

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Reheat in a skillet with a little oil or butter to crisp the potatoes back up.

Storage Instructions for Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

Refrigerator

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter to restore crispiness.
• Microwave Option: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Freezer (Best for Pre-Cooked Potatoes)

• Store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Label & Date your container to keep track of freshness.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating Tips

• Best Option (Stovetop): Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or butter to re-crisp the potatoes.
• Microwave (Quickest): Heat in short intervals to prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy.
• Oven Method: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions for Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes! Frozen diced potatoes or hash browns work great and save time. Just add them straight to the skillet and adjust cooking time as needed.

2. What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, Andouille, or turkey sausage work best. For a spicy version, try chorizo or Cajun-style sausage.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything as directed, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

5. How do I make my potatoes crispy?

• Use a large skillet to prevent overcrowding.
• Let the potatoes cook without stirring for a few minutes before flipping.
• Use a mix of butter and oil for better browning.

6. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

7. What vegetables go well in this dish?

Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes all work well.

8. Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes! Swap the potatoes for cauliflower, radishes, or turnips for a keto-friendly version.

9. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Stovetop (Best Method): Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

10. Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes! Roast everything at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.

Still have questions? Drop them in the comments below, and I’d be happy to help!

Conclusion

This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s easy, delicious, and packed with bold, smoky flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or meal prep—and the best part? Minimal effort, maximum flavor!

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