Name: Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds; 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

There’s something so satisfying about a one-pan meal, especially when it’s packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients. This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is one of my go-to recipes for a quick, comforting dinner. The combination of crispy, golden-brown potatoes, juicy smoked sausage, and a blend of simple seasonings creates a dish that’s both effortless and delicious.

I love how this meal comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish for brunch, or a cozy meal to enjoy on a lazy weekend, this recipe never disappoints. The flavors meld beautifully, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end brings the whole dish to life.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
Budget-Friendly – Uses simple ingredients that you likely already have.
Customizable – Swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Hearty & Satisfying – The perfect balance of protein, carbs, and flavor.

What Kind of Smoked Sausage Should I Use?

When it comes to making the perfect Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet, the type of sausage you choose can make a big difference in flavor. I prefer using fully cooked smoked sausage because it adds a deep, smoky taste and requires minimal cooking time. You can use beef, pork, turkey, or chicken sausage, depending on your preference. Kielbasa, Andouille, or even a spicy chorizo will bring different flavors to the dish.

For a slightly healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works great while keeping the dish light. If you want a more robust and smoky flavor, pork or beef sausage is the way to go. No matter what type you choose, slicing the sausage into bite-sized pieces ensures it sears beautifully and absorbs all the delicious seasonings.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is highly customizable, so if you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, here are some great swaps:

Potatoes – Yukon Golds work best, but you can use red potatoes, russets, or even sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness.
Sausage – Any fully cooked sausage works, but you can also use fresh sausage (just cook it through before adding the potatoes).
Seasonings – Swap paprika for smoked paprika for a richer taste, or add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Vegetables – Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini are excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Oil & Butter – Olive oil is great, but you can use avocado oil, or even a little bacon grease for a more indulgent touch.

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect version of this dish!

Ingredients for This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in delivering flavor, texture, and heartiness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Smoked Sausage – The star of the dish! Sliced smoked sausage brings a rich, savory flavor with a hint of smokiness.
Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for a buttery texture and crispy edges. They absorb the seasonings beautifully.
Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor as it caramelizes while cooking.
Bell Peppers – A pop of color and a mild sweetness that balances the smokiness of the sausage.
Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste and brings out the savory elements.
Olive Oil & Butter – Olive oil helps with crisping the potatoes, while butter adds richness and depth.
Paprika – A warm, slightly smoky spice that enhances the overall dish. Smoked paprika works especially well!
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of each ingredient.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives an aromatic boost to the dish.
Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of freshness and color.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by washing and cutting the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and crisp up nicely. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds, about ¼-inch thick, so they sear beautifully. Chop the onion and bell peppers into small, even pieces, and mince the garlic for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the diced potatoes in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, then stir occasionally until they are golden brown and tender (about 10-12 minutes total). Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the edges are nicely browned and slightly crispy. The caramelization adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside with the potatoes.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked potatoes and sausage to the skillet. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine, letting everything cook together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the skillet for a touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet!

How Long to Cook the Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

This dish comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time:

Potatoes: 10-12 minutes until golden and fork-tender.
Sausage: 6-8 minutes to achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior.
Vegetables: 3-4 minutes for a soft, slightly charred texture.
Final Cook Time: 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors together.

Total Time: ~25 minutes from start to finish!

Tips for the Perfect Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

Use the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and crisp up nicely. Avoid overly starchy potatoes like russets unless you like a softer texture.
Cut Evenly: Uniformly sized potatoes and sausage slices ensure even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the skillet is too full, the potatoes will steam instead of crisp. Use a large pan or cook in batches if needed.
Let the Potatoes Brown: Resist the urge to stir too often! Let the potatoes sit undisturbed for a few minutes at a time to develop a crispy, golden crust.
Crisp the Sausage Well: Searing the sausage brings out its smoky, savory flavor. Let it brown properly before stirring.
Adjust the Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds extra depth.
Garnish for Freshness: A final touch of chopped parsley or even a squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Not Drying the Potatoes – If your potatoes are wet, they won’t crisp up. After washing, pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking.
Overcrowding the Skillet – Too many ingredients in the pan at once can prevent the potatoes from getting that golden, crispy exterior. If needed, cook in batches.
Skipping the Preheat – Always heat your skillet before adding ingredients to ensure a good sear on the sausage and a crispy texture on the potatoes.
Stirring Too Much – Let the potatoes sit undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a crispy crust before flipping them.
Using the Wrong Sausage – Fresh, uncooked sausage needs more time to cook through, so make sure you’re using pre-cooked smoked sausage or adjust your cooking time.
Not Adjusting Seasonings – Taste the dish before serving and tweak the salt, pepper, or spices to your preference.
Forgetting the Garnish – Fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of cheese can elevate the dish and add a final layer of flavor.

What to Serve With Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a side can make it even better. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra flavors in the skillet.

2. Side Salad

A light and refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the sausage and potatoes.

3. Roasted Vegetables

If you want to add more veggies, roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make great sides.

4. Scrambled or Fried Eggs

Turn this into a breakfast dish by serving it with eggs on the side. A runny yolk pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.

5. Sauteed Spinach or Kale

A simple sautéed green side adds freshness and nutrition to the meal.

6. Applesauce or Pickles

For a surprising contrast, serve with a spoonful of applesauce or pickles—the sweet and tangy flavors complement the smoky sausage.

7. Mac and Cheese

For the ultimate comfort food combination, pair this skillet dish with creamy mac and cheese.

8. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

A dollop on top adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced skillet.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet stores and reheats beautifully!

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the potatoes may become a bit softer upon reheating. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months.
Make-Ahead Tip: If you want to prep ahead, chop the potatoes, sausage, and veggies in advance and store them separately in the fridge for easy cooking later.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of oil or butter. Stir occasionally until warmed through (about 5 minutes).
Microwave: Place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Oven: Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

Estimated Nutrition

The nutritional values will vary based on the type of sausage and potatoes used, but here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~400-450
Protein: ~15-20g
Carbohydrates: ~35-40g
Fats: ~20-25g
Fiber: ~4-5g
Sodium: Varies depending on the sausage brand

For a lighter version, you can use chicken or turkey sausage, reduce the oil, or swap in sweet potatoes for extra fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?

Yes, but fresh sausage needs to be cooked fully before adding the potatoes. Brown it first, then remove it from the pan while cooking the potatoes.

2. What’s the best type of potato for this dish?

Yukon Gold and red potatoes work best because they hold their shape and crisp up nicely. Russet potatoes are softer and may break apart more.

3. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Use spicy smoked sausage like Andouille, add red pepper flakes, or drizzle some hot sauce before serving.

4. How do I make sure my potatoes get crispy?

Dry them well before cooking, don’t overcrowd the pan, and let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes at a time while cooking.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even green beans make great additions. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

6. Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Chicken, bacon, or even shrimp can work as a replacement for sausage. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. How do I keep the sausage from getting too dry?

Don’t overcook it! Smoked sausage is already fully cooked, so you just need to brown it for a few minutes for flavor.

8. Can I make this dish in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes! Toss everything together with a little oil and seasoning, spread it on a baking sheet, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.

Conclusion

This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a side, it’s sure to be a hit. Save this recipe to Pinterest, share it with your family, and let me know how you customize it to make it your own!