There’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of a well-prepared meal after a long day, and the sizzle from the kitchen can be an invitation to happiness. When I’m feeling the need for a meal that brings all the flavors together without requiring a lot of effort, my go-to is the Sausage & Potato Skillet. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of taste that not only fills the belly but warms the heart.
In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful one-pan wonder that’s perfect for those weeknights when takeout just won’t cut it. The combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant peppers will make you feel like a gourmet chef in your own home—all while keeping clean-up a breeze. Plus, the aroma as it cooks will have the family gathering around before it’s even on the table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and rediscover the joys of homemade comfort food!
Why You'll Love This Sausage & Potato Skillet
- This Sausage & Potato Skillet is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it suitable for any palate.
- It’s a one-pan meal, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying delicious food with loved ones.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this skillet dish is sure to impress your family and friends whenever you serve it.
Sausage & Potato Skillet Ingredients
• Get ready for a delightful cooking experience!
For the Skillet
- 1 lb sausage – choose your favorite type, whether it’s spicy, sweet, or herb-infused for added flavor.
- 4 medium potatoes, diced – regular or sweet potatoes work wonderfully, just ensure they’re cut uniformly for even cooking.
- 1 onion, chopped – complements the sausage beautifully and adds natural sweetness as it cooks down.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – a splash of color and crunch, feel free to mix and match your favorite varieties.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – enhances flavor and ensures that nothing sticks to the skillet.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings to elevate all the other wonderful flavors in your Sausage & Potato Skillet.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a smoky depth that rounds out the dish perfectly.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a scrumptious meal that your family will cherish!
How to Make Sausage & Potato Skillet
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Heat oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will get the oil nice and hot, setting the stage for a perfect sauté.
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Sauté veggies: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant, giving a wonderful foundation of flavor.
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Add potatoes: Incorporate the diced potatoes into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to soften.
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Cook sausage: Toss in the sausage pieces. Cook everything together until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes, ensuring a deliciously savory result.
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Season: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to coat all the ingredients in those wonderful spices, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
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Serve hot: Once everything is cooked and the aromas have filled your kitchen, serve the skillet directly from the pan for a comforting family meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sausage & Potato Skillet Variations
Feel free to explore these mouthwatering twists to make the dish your own!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out any sausage containing dairy for a plant-based option to keep it creamy without the milk.
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Add Greens: Toss in a couple of handfuls of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
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Spice it Up: For a kick, add finely diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to appease those who crave heat in their meals.
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Herb-Infused: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary into the skillet as it cooks for an aromatic flavor that dances on your palate.
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Cheesy Delight: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top just before serving melts beautifully and adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.
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Smoky Flavor: Substitute regular sausage for smoked sausage, which brings a depth of flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
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Veggie Explosion: Add in your choice of additional vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to enhance texture, color, and nutrition.
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Mustard Kick: Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard just before serving for a tangy touch that elevates the entire flavor profile.
What to Serve with Sausage & Potato Skillet?
Creating a well-rounded meal around your beloved skillet dish can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight provides an irresistible crunch, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from your skillet.
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Steamed Broccoli: Fresh, vibrant, and slightly crunchy, broccoli adds a nutritious component that balances the richness of the sausage.
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Garden Salad: A bright mix of greens and veggies dressed lightly brings freshness to your plate, while the acidity cuts through the savory flavors.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture contrasts with the warmth of your skillet, making every bite a delightful experience.
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Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice with a splash of lemon and herbs serves as a subtly flavored base, absorbing the flavors beautifully.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert featuring juicy apples and a crunchy topping, offering a comforting finish.
Pair these options to create a feast that delights the senses and nurtures the soul!
Make Ahead Options
These Sausage & Potato Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onion, bell pepper, and potatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also ensures freshness. You can also precook the sausage and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat olive oil in your skillet, add the prepped veggies and sausage, and cook until everything is heated through and the potatoes are tender. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
How to Store and Freeze Sausage & Potato Skillet
Fridge: Store your Sausage & Potato Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy those delightful flavors again!
Freezer: Allow the skillet to cool completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist if necessary.
Serving Suggestion: When reheating, feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra dash of paprika for a flavor boost!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing your Sausage & Potato Skillet, ensure that all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking to streamline the process.
- A common mistake is overcrowding the skillet; give enough space for the sausages to brown evenly and for the vegetables to sauté properly.
- For a perfect texture, try to dice the potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate and become tender at the same time.
- Keep an eye on your heat levels; medium heat is ideal for sautéing without burning your onions and peppers, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Sausage & Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of sausage should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choosing the right sausage can elevate your Sausage & Potato Skillet experience. I recommend using a flavorful sausage such as Italian, chorizo, or even a smoked sausage. Sweet or spicy varieties can bring different flavor profiles, so go with what you love best!
How should I store leftovers of the Sausage & Potato Skillet?
For the best flavor preservation, store your Sausage & Potato Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing. This way, you can enjoy it again without losing that delicious homemade taste!
Can I freeze Sausage & Potato Skillet?
Yes! To freeze your skillet dish, allow it to cool completely after cooking. Then, pack it into a zip-top bag or airtight container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
What should I do if my potatoes aren’t cooking evenly?
The more the merrier in the kitchen! If you notice that some potato pieces are cooking slower than others, ensure all potatoes are diced evenly, about 1-inch cubes. If they still seem to lag behind, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to create steam, which will help cook them through more evenly.
Is this dish safe for pets or people with allergies?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, be mindful of the sausage and any added seasonings. Some sausages contain gluten or are made with milk products, so always check the labels. Additionally, it’s advisable to keep this dish away from pets, as garlic and onions can be harmful to them.
How long will cooked potatoes last in the fridge?
Cooked potatoes will typically last in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days if stored correctly. Ensure they’re sealed well in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
Sausage & Potato Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Incorporate the diced potatoes. Stir and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Toss in the sausage pieces. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and paprika, stirring well to coat all ingredients.
- Serve hot from the skillet for a comforting family meal.
