There’s something about the combination of crispy, golden potatoes and smoky sausage that makes this Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet utterly irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend brunch, this one-pan dish delivers both satisfying comfort and bold flavor in every bite. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. What makes it even better? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
This skillet recipe strikes the perfect balance between crispy potatoes, tender sausage, and caramelized onions, all seasoned to perfection. Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s the ideal go-to dish when you need something quick, hearty, and absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s bound to become your new favorite!
Ingredients: The Key to Flavorful Perfection
Each ingredient in this dish plays a pivotal role in creating the mouthwatering flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more.
1½ pounds russet potatoes (diced into ½" cubes): The star of the show, russet potatoes bring a soft, fluffy texture when cooked through and a crispy exterior when seared. Their starchy nature makes them the ideal choice for creating that golden, crispy crunch we all crave.
1 pound smoked sausage (sliced): The smoky, savory flavor of the sausage perfectly complements the potatoes. As it cooks, it releases rich oils that add even more depth to the overall dish. You can choose between classic smoked sausage or your favorite variety for extra spice.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for frying the potatoes and sausage to perfection, vegetable oil has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the dish. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for crisping up the potatoes and browning the sausage.
1 medium onion (sliced): Sweet, soft, and caramelized onions add a lovely sweetness to the dish, creating a perfect balance with the salty sausage and savory potatoes.
Salt and pepper to taste: The simplest yet most essential seasonings. Salt brings out the natural flavors of all the ingredients, while black pepper provides a gentle heat and depth.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder is a pantry staple that imparts that warm, aromatic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s the secret ingredient to rounding out the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall savory flavor while contributing a lovely pop of color to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that is as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet and Heat the Oil
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. This will create the perfect surface for frying the potatoes and sausage to a crisp, golden brown.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced russet potatoes to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. The goal is to get them golden and tender on the outside while keeping them soft on the inside.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Once the potatoes have reached that crispy golden perfection, it’s time to add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook the sausage for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly and release its smoky flavors. This will elevate the dish with a delicious depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Onions
Now it’s time to introduce the sliced onions into the skillet. Toss them in and cook for another 3-5 minutes. You want the onions to soften and begin to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness to balance the richness of the sausage and potatoes.
Step 5: Season the Skillet
Season your skillet with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir everything together so the spices coat the ingredients evenly. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the dish to crisp up to your desired texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet hot. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness, if desired.
Why This Recipe Is Loved by Everyone
This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is beloved for several reasons:
Versatility: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste. Want to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach? Go for it! The beauty of this dish is that it’s highly customizable.
One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in a single skillet, making this an incredibly practical option for busy cooks who want to spend less time washing dishes.
Comfort Food with a Twist: It combines classic comfort food elements (potatoes and sausage) with a smoky flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will prevent the potatoes from getting crispy. Cook in batches if necessary.
Use a cast iron skillet: For the ultimate in crispy potatoes, use a cast iron skillet. It holds heat evenly and helps achieve that perfect sear.
Let the potatoes sit: Resist the urge to stir the potatoes too much in the beginning. Let them sit in the skillet undisturbed for a few minutes to get that crispy, golden exterior.
Adjust seasonings to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and paprika based on your preferences. A little extra paprika can really enhance the smoky flavor!
Serving Suggestions
This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top for added protein and a beautiful presentation.
- Sautéed greens like spinach or kale for a healthy, vibrant contrast.
Conclusion: Simple, Delicious, and Irresistible
If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor, this Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet checks all the boxes. With minimal prep time, simple ingredients, and a one-pan cooking method, this dish is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Try it tonight and discover why this Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet has earned its place as a timeless comfort food classic. You won’t believe how such a simple recipe can deliver so much flavor—and your taste buds will thank you for it!