I still remember the aroma of smoked sausage and potatoes filling Grandma’s kitchen on cool autumn evenings. This comforting skillet meal brings me right back to those heartland moments where food was love made visible.
Growing up in the Midwest, our family gatherings always seemed to center around simple, satisfying dishes that could feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Smoked sausage and potatoes was one of those magical recipes that appeared when cousins came over or when Dad had worked late and needed something hearty. The sizzle of the sausage hitting the hot skillet, the earthy scent of potatoes browning in those savory drippings – just like our Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes – these sensory memories are etched into my soul.
What I love most about this smoked sausage and potatoes recipe is how it transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. There’s something miraculous about the way the potatoes soak up all those wonderful flavors, becoming crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. It’s comfort food that doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients – just honest cooking that speaks to the heart. Ready to create some kitchen magic of your own? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Skillet Dinner
My grandmother always said that the best recipes are the ones that make you feel hugged from the inside out. This hearty smoked sausage and potatoes skillet does exactly that! It’s a beloved family favorite that originated in my grandma’s heartland kitchen, where simple ingredients were transformed into meals that gathered everyone around the table.
Quick and fuss-free – I’ve timed this recipe countless times, and it consistently delivers incredible flavor in just 35 minutes from start to finish!
One-pan wonder – Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your evening!
Budget-friendly comfort – Using simple, affordable ingredients that create a filling meal for the whole family is what I love about this dish.
Versatile and adaptable – I’ve made this countless times with whatever sausage was on sale or potatoes I had on hand, and it always turns out delicious!
Kid-approved flavors – The savory, mild seasonings make this a hit with even the pickiest eaters in my family.
“This smoked sausage and potatoes skillet isn’t just dinner—it’s a warm memory of family gatherings that you can recreate in your own kitchen!”
Ingredient Note List
Smoked Sausage: I always reach for a good quality smoked sausage because its rich, smoky flavor is the foundation of this entire dish. The rendered fat also adds incredible flavor to the potatoes!
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold are my go-to choices because they develop that perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior when fried in the skillet.
Onion: In my kitchen, I’ve found that yellow onions work best in this recipe as they become wonderfully sweet and caramelized when cooked alongside the potatoes.
Olive Oil: I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, but any cooking oil you have on hand will work beautifully in this hearty smoked sausage and potatoes dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates that aromatic base that makes this dish so irresistible – I’ve tried garlic powder in a pinch, but nothing beats the flavor of fresh!
Paprika: I love how paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness that enhances the sausage flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Dried Thyme: This herb brings a gentle earthiness that reminds me of my grandma’s cooking – she always said thyme was perfect with potatoes!
Fresh Parsley: I sprinkle this on at the end for a pop of bright color and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the smoked sausage and potatoes.
How to Cook Smoked Sausage and Potatoes?
Step 1. I always start by prepping everything first – slicing the smoked sausage into hearty rounds, dicing potatoes into bite-sized cubes (I aim for about ¾-inch pieces), and chopping the onion. Having everything ready makes the cooking process so much smoother!
Step 2. My favorite part is browning the sausage! I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add those sliced rounds and cook for about 5-7 minutes. I’ve found that patience here is key – let them get nicely browned for the best flavor.
Step 3. After removing the sausage, I add the chopped onion to the same skillet where all those wonderful sausage drippings are waiting. My grandmother always taught me never to waste those flavorful bits at the bottom of the pan!
Step 4. I’ve learned through many family dinners that adding the potatoes directly to the onions creates the most delicious flavor. I cook them for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning – this is where the magic happens!
Step 5. My kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma when I stir in the minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. I cook this for just 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant – careful not to burn it!
Step 6. I love reuniting the browned sausage with the potato mixture, gently folding everything together so the flavors can mingle. Then I cover the skillet and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 7. Before serving, I always taste and adjust the seasonings if needed – sometimes a little extra salt makes all the difference. Then I sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for that perfect finishing touch!
How to Store & Reheat
I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where this smoked sausage and potatoes dish stays delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day!
For freezing, I’ve found that while you can freeze this dish, the texture of the potatoes changes slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, I recommend portioning it into smaller containers so you can reheat only what you need. It keeps well for about 1 month in the freezer.
In my experience, the best way to reheat this dish is in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method crisps up the potatoes again and prevents that soggy texture you might get from microwaving. However, if you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too – I heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for more even heating.
What to Serve with Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
Simple Green Salad: My family loves the refreshing contrast of a crisp green salad like our Cucumber Feta Salad with this hearty dish. The light, tangy dressing provides the perfect balance to the rich, savory flavors of the smoked sausage and potatoes.
Crusty Bread: There’s something wonderful about using warm, crusty bread to soak up all those flavorful juices left in your bowl. I always warm a loaf in the oven while finishing the skillet.
Steamed Green Beans: When I want to add more vegetables to our meal, I steam some fresh green beans and toss them with a little butter and lemon zest—just like our Green Bean Casserole, which brings a comforting touch to the table.
Applesauce: This might sound unusual, but my grandmother always served homemade applesauce with sausage dishes. If you’re into sweet pairings, try our Apple Cocoa Bake—it creates a delightful contrast to the savory sausage.
Sauerkraut: For a traditional European pairing that my husband absolutely loves, serve some tangy sauerkraut on the side. The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! I’ve made this with red potatoes and sweet potatoes too – each gives the dish a slightly different character but works beautifully with the smoked sausage.
What’s the best type of smoked sausage to use?
I typically use kielbasa or Polish sausage, but andouille adds a wonderful spicy kick if your family enjoys heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep all the ingredients the day before, but for the best texture, I recommend cooking it just before serving so the potatoes stay crispy.
How do I know when the potatoes are perfectly done?
I always test by piercing with a fork – they should offer little resistance but still hold their shape without becoming mushy.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! I often toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most smoked sausages are gluten-free, but I always recommend checking the packaging to be certain, especially if cooking for someone with celiac disease.
Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
A hearty and comforting dish featuring smoked sausage and tender potatoes, perfect for any occasion.
Slice the smoked sausage into rounds and set aside. Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and chop the onion. Mince the garlic.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and heated through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to become tender.
Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well with the potatoes and seasonings. Cover the skillet and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fully cooked and tender.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Enjoy your Smoked Sausage and Potatoes, a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for any occasion!
