If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only easy to whip up but also packs a punch of flavor, then let me introduce you to my beloved smoked sausage and potatoes skillet! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate; it’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-simple to make. I remember the first time I tossed everything into the skillet, thinking it was just another weeknight dinner. But wow, the aroma that filled my kitchen was incredible! The sizzling sausage paired with tender potatoes and vibrant veggies creates a symphony of deliciousness that’s hard to resist. Plus, it all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Trust me, this dish has become a staple in my home, perfect for busy nights or when I just want something comforting. Let’s dive into how to create this scrumptious skillet meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients List

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (you can use any variety you love—kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage work great!)
4 medium potatoes, diced (I prefer Yukon Gold for their creamy texture, but any type will do!)
1 onion, chopped (yellow onions add the perfect sweetness!)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love that fragrant garlic goodness?)
1 bell pepper, chopped (red, green, or yellow—use your favorite for a pop of color!)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for that lovely sautéed flavor!)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning—it makes all the difference!)
1 teaspoon paprika (this adds a nice smoky depth that complements the sausage beautifully)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (a sprinkle of herbs brings everything together!)

How to Prepare a Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Getting this smoked sausage and potatoes skillet ready is a breeze! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal on your table in no time!

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

First things first, let’s get that skillet nice and hot! Pour the 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet and place it over medium heat. You’ll want to wait until the oil shimmers a bit—that’s how you know it’s ready for the next step. This preheating is crucial because it helps everything cook evenly and prevents sticking. It’s like giving your ingredients a warm welcome!

Step 2: Cook the Smoked Sausage

Once your oil is hot, add in the 1 pound of sliced smoked sausage. Now, here’s the secret: let the sausage sit for a minute before stirring. This allows it to get that beautiful golden-brown crust, which adds tons of flavor. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s nicely browned. That sizzling sound? Music to my ears!

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasoning

Now, it’s time to bring in the flavor parade! Toss in the diced potatoes, chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, along with the 1 teaspoon of paprika and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Give everything a good stir to combine—this is where the magic happens! Ensure all those veggies are coated in the tasty olive oil and seasoning.

Step 4: Cover and Cook

Cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This step is key because it allows the potatoes to steam and become tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep everything cooking evenly. If you find the potatoes are sticking a bit, just add a splash of water or broth to help them along!

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once your potatoes are fork-tender and everything is beautifully cooked through, it’s time to serve! I love plating this dish family-style right in the skillet for a rustic touch. Just make sure to enjoy it hot; the flavors are at their best when served fresh. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: You can have this delicious meal ready in just about 35 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Hearty flavors: The combination of smoked sausage and tender potatoes creates a mouthwatering dish that’s full of comfort.
One-pan meal: Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
Versatile: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own—it’s a great way to use up what you have on hand!
Low-calorie option: With a balanced mix of protein and veggies, this dish can fit nicely into a healthy eating plan.
Kid-friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Perfect for leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day without losing any of its deliciousness!

Tips for Success

To ensure your smoked sausage and potatoes skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way!

Choose the Right Sausage: When selecting your smoked sausage, go for high-quality varieties that are well-seasoned. Kielbasa and andouille are fantastic choices, but don’t hesitate to experiment with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option!
Pick the Perfect Potatoes: I always recommend Yukon Gold or red potatoes for this dish. They have a creamy texture that holds up well during cooking. If you want to try something different, sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness that pairs great with the sausage.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. The paprika and thyme add depth, but feel free to throw in your favorite herbs like rosemary or oregano for a personal touch.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Times: Every stove is a little different, so keep an eye on the potatoes. You want them tender but not mushy. If they’re not done after 20 minutes, give them a few more minutes while stirring occasionally.
Mix It Up with Veggies: This dish is super versatile! Feel free to add in other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even spinach. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, creating a more cohesive dish!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to making a smoked sausage and potatoes skillet that’ll wow your family and friends! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a delicious smoked sausage and potatoes skillet, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for one serving of this hearty dish. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 400
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 15g

This dish provides a wonderful balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it a filling option for any meal. Enjoy it guilt-free, knowing that it’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers from your smoked sausage and potatoes skillet? Lucky you! Storing this dish properly will keep all those delightful flavors intact. First, let the skillet cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help keep them fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the sooner you eat them, the better they’ll taste!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is super simple. I recommend warming them up in a skillet over medium heat. This way, you can add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and enhance the moisture. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through—about 5 to 7 minutes should do the trick! You can also pop them in the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to keep it from drying out. Enjoy that comforting meal all over again!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While I love using smoked sausage for its rich flavor, feel free to experiment. Chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even veggie sausage can work beautifully. Just remember that different sausages may alter the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on it!

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
No worries at all! If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can use garlic powder. About 1/4 teaspoon should do the trick. Just add it along with the other seasonings to give that lovely garlicky flavor without the chopping!

Can I add more vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! This dish is super versatile. Feel free to throw in other veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even some frozen peas. Just chop them to a similar size as the potatoes for even cooking, and you’ll have a colorful, nutrient-packed meal!

How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Great question! The potatoes should be fork-tender when they’re ready. If you can easily pierce them with a fork, they’re good to go! Just make sure to stir occasionally so they cook evenly and don’t stick to the bottom of the skillet.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prep some of the ingredients ahead! Chop your veggies and slice the sausage the night before, then store them in the fridge. Just remember to cook everything fresh for the best flavors and textures!

Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet for Comforting Nights

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty smoked sausage and potatoes skillet dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned.
Add diced potatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Stir to combine and cover the skillet.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
Remove from heat and serve hot.

Notes

Use any type of smoked sausage you prefer.
You can add other vegetables if desired.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: smoked sausage and potatoes skillet, easy dinner, one-pan meal

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