Southern Fried Potatoes & Sausage

Finding the right comfort food can feel like a quest. One dish that warms both the heart and the stomach is Southern fried potatoes and sausage. It conjures memories of family gatherings, laughter around the dinner table, and the delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen. Every bite tells a story of togetherness, rich flavors, and simplicity woven together.

Southern fried potatoes and sausage create a harmonious blend of savory and hearty elements, making each meal an occasion. The crispy potatoes, infused with spices, pair perfectly with juicy sausage pieces, bringing comfort and joy to your day. This dish has a way of transforming ordinary days into something special.

Cooking it becomes a celebration of flavors and techniques. The magic lies in the process, where each ingredient plays its part in making a delightful meal. Let’s dive into making this beloved comfort food and uncover its wonders together.

Southern Fried Potatoes and Sausage: Fundamentals

Understanding the Dish

Southern fried potatoes and sausage is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. This dish showcases simple ingredients that many keep on hand. Its appeal lies in the amalgamation of flavors created through the cooking method we choose.

At its core, this classic recipe combines smoked sausage with tender russet potatoes, featuring a delightful crunch. The onions add depth and sweetness, enhancing the overall profile. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up; you just need a love for good food and a desire to bring joy to your table.

Preparation/Setup

Gathering all the necessary ingredients beforehand saves time and creates a smoother cooking experience. Start by choosing a large skillet, preferably nonstick, to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.

Chop the onion while keeping an eye on the sausage, as browning it ensures a flavorful base for our dish. The peeling and cubing of russet potatoes prepare them for quick cooking, and make sure they are uniform; it helps them cook evenly. Having everything prepped ensures a seamless transition from start to finish.

Ingredients

For this comforting creation, you’ll need:

• 1 lb smoked sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 5-6 russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Vegetable oil

These ingredients come together beautifully, each bringing its own unique element to the dish. Make sure to have them measured and ready to go!

Directions

1. Cut the sausage into bite-sized pieces.
2. Drizzle a little vegetable oil in a large skillet (preferably nonstick) and sauté the sausage until it turns a lovely golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes, about 3/4 inch in size.
4. In the same skillet, add the potatoes, chopped onion, 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir everything well.
5. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Cook for 10 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and increase the temperature to medium-high. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes or until the potatoes become tender with crispy edges.
7. Use a spatula to flip the sausage and potatoes, ensuring they can crisp up nicely in the oil without stirring too much.

Serve immediately, delighting in the warmth and inviting aroma of this Southern comfort food.

Mastering Southern Fried Potatoes and Sausage

The Technique

Cooking Southern fried potatoes and sausage involves a few techniques that elevate the dish from merely good to exceptional. A key part is the initial browning of the sausage, which infuses the oil with flavor.

Getting the potatoes to reach that perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness is another critical aspect. By starting with boiling, you allow the insides to cook through before cranking up the heat for that golden exterior.

Handy Tips and Tricks

1. Timing is Everything: Keep an eye on your potatoes. Letting them boil before frying ensures a soft interior.
2. Temperature Control: Adjust the heat based on your stove’s performance. If potatoes begin to over-brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning.
3. Don’t Stir Too Much: Stirring can break apart your potatoes. Let them rest to achieve that desired crispiness.
4. Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe brings a classic taste, feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. Your creativity can personalize this dish to your taste.

Perfecting Southern Fried Potatoes and Sausage

Achieving the Best Results

Cooking is often about trial and error. Adjusting the ingredients or cooking times can yield different textures and flavors. For instance, if you love garlic, consider adding fresh minced garlic alongside the onions.

Experimenting with varying quantities of salt and spices also helps you discover your perfect ratio. Tasting throughout the cooking process allows you to hone in on the flavors that reflect your preferences.

Common Troubleshooting and Variations

If you find your potatoes sticking, make sure the skillet remains well-oiled and that they’re flipped occasionally during cooking. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider incorporating bell peppers or additional seasoning.

For variations, consider using other types of sausages or vegetables. Sweet potatoes can replace traditional russets, providing a slightly different sweetness that pairs wonderfully.

Serving and Enjoying Southern Fried Potatoes and Sausage

Presentation Matters

Present your Southern fried potatoes and sausage in a vibrant bowl, showcasing the golden colors and crispy edges that make this dish so inviting. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor, like parsley or chives.

Family-style serving allows everyone to help themselves, fostering the communal spirit that this dish embodies.

Pairings and Storage

Southern fried potatoes and sausage pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This comforts an array of colors and flavors on your dinner table.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat carefully to maintain that crispy texture.

Every click of the spatula brings you closer to enjoying this rich, flavorful dish. The process becomes a cherished memory, showcasing the beauty of home-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul. This recipe is more than just food; it’s a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing.

Southern Fried Potatoes & Sausage

---

• Author: emma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting dish of crispy fried potatoes and juicy smoked sausage, perfect for family gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb smoked sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 5–6 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Vegetable oil

---

Instructions

1. Cut the sausage into bite-sized pieces.
2. Drizzle vegetable oil in a large skillet and sauté the sausage until golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, peel and cube the potatoes into 3/4 inch pieces.
4. In the same skillet, add the potatoes, chopped onion, 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir well.
5. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for 10 minutes.
6. Remove the lid, increase heat to medium-high, and cook for another 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender with crispy edges.
7. Use a spatula to flip the sausage and potatoes to ensure they crisp up nicely without stirring too much.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a more robust flavor, consider adding bell peppers or experimenting with different herbs and spices.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: fried potatoes, sausage recipe, comfort food, southern cuisine, easy recipe