Smoked Sausage Potatoes Skillet

This smoky, savory skillet dinner combines crispy potatoes with juicy sausage for a complete meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish has made it a weeknight staple in my household for good reason.

I first created this dish one evening when I needed to feed my hungry family quickly with what we had on hand. Now it's requested at least twice a month because everyone can add their favorite toppings to make it their own.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage rounds: Add rich, smoky flavor as the protein base. Look for quality brands with visible spices in the meat.
• Russet potatoes: Create the perfect crispy exterior while staying fluffy inside. Choose firm potatoes without green spots.
• Onion and red bell pepper: Bring sweetness and color to balance the savory elements.
• Fresh garlic cloves: Provide aromatic depth that dried versions simply cannot match.
• Olive oil: Helps create the golden crust on potatoes and sausage. Use extra virgin for best flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Amplifies the smokiness throughout the dish. The Spanish variety offers the most intense flavor.
• Garlic powder: Ensures even garlic flavor in every bite.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

Dice the potatoes into uniform half-inch cubes so they cook evenly. Heat olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add potatoes in a single layer if possible, sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping to develop a golden crust. Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes total, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should be fork-tender with crispy edges. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Brown the Sausage:

Add the remaining olive oil to the empty skillet. When hot, arrange sausage slices in a single layer. Allow them to sear undisturbed for 2 minutes before stirring. Cook until they develop a deep brown color with caramelized edges, about 3-4 minutes total. The caramelization creates depth of flavor throughout the dish.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add chopped onion and red bell pepper to the browned sausage. Stir frequently and cook until the onion becomes translucent and begins to caramelize at the edges, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant but not brown. Garlic burns easily and becomes bitter, so watch it carefully.

Combine and Finish:

Return the crispy potatoes to the skillet, gently folding everything together to combine while maintaining the potato texture. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is hot and the flavors have melded together. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Pin it

The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient in this dish. I discovered its transformative power when I accidentally used it instead of regular paprika one evening. The depth it adds completely elevates this simple dish into something that tastes like it took hours to develop those flavors.

Make-Ahead Options

This skillet dish can be partially prepared in advance to make weeknight cooking even faster. Pre-chop all vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can even pre-cook the potatoes until they're about 75% done, cool them completely, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, start with browning the sausage, add the vegetables, then mix in the par-cooked potatoes to finish. This cuts the active cooking time down to about 15 minutes.

Pin it

Variations to Try

This recipe serves as an excellent base for countless variations. For a spicy Cajun version, use andouille sausage and add 1-2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. For an Italian twist, use Italian sausage with bell peppers and add a teaspoon of Italian herbs. Create a breakfast version by adding scrambled eggs during the final cooking stage. For a heartier meal, stir in a can of drained white beans or corn kernels when combining everything. The possibilities are truly endless with this versatile recipe framework.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet straight from the pan for a casual family dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal that stretches to feed more people, serve alongside crusty bread for mopping up the flavorful bits in the pan. My family loves setting out toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their own plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa, chorizo, or even chicken sausage. Each type brings its unique flavor to the dish.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

For a spicier version, add red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or top the dish with hot sauce before serving.

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative for a slightly sweeter flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dish pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a full meal.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for heartiness.