Sausage and Potatoes Skillet: A One-Pan Wonder for Easy Weeknight Meals

Every weeknight feels like a culinary puzzle as evening rolls around. The days often blend into a rush, leaving precious little time to prepare a hearty meal. That’s where the magic of a sausage and potatoes skillet comes into play! This dish brings together vibrant flavors and delightful textures, creating a satisfying meal in one pan.

Imagine the savory aroma of smoked sausage sizzling in a skillet, mingling with golden-brown baby potatoes, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic garlic and onions. The combination is irresistible, and the best part? It comes together in about 30 minutes. This dish serves as the perfect solution for busy evenings when laughter and conversations around the table matter most, making cooking less of a chore and more of a joy.

A sausage and potatoes skillet allows for creativity with seasonings and optional ingredients. Whether you choose to throw in fresh spinach or a sprinkle of parsley for garnish, each bite embodies comfort and warmth. The flavorful medley celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients turning into a quick, fuss-free, delicious meal perfect for gathering together.

Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Understanding the key elements of a sausage and potatoes skillet sets the stage for success. The hearty pairing of smoked sausage and baby potatoes serves as a robust foundation, allowing various seasonings to elevate the flavors.

The essential cooking technique combines parboiling the potatoes before crisping them in a skillet. This ensures both tenderness and that sought-after golden crust. Smoked sausage contributes incredible flavor while keeping the dish filling. The inclusion of colorful bell peppers and onions adds both sweetness and crunch, creating a well-rounded taste experience that satisfies.

Preparation/Setup

Preparing for the sausage and potatoes skillet involves gathering and measuring the right ingredients ahead of time. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered for even cooking
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bell pepper, sliced to add extra color
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Setting everything in place before you start cooking helps streamline the process and reduces stress.

Ingredients

Having your ingredients ready enhances the cooking experience. Here’s a detailed look at each component:

• Smoked Sausage: Pick your favorite variety, but the smokiness transports flavors to new heights.
• Baby Potatoes: Opt for small potatoes for quicker cooking. They have a firm texture that holds up during frying.
• Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing and adds a rich flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic components create a tasty base that infuses the skillet with delightful flavors.
• Bell Pepper: Choose any color you prefer; they add both sweetness and vibrant color.
• Seasonings: The combination of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper brings depth and warmth.

Directions

1. Start by placing the halved or quartered baby potatoes into a large pot and covering them with cold, salted water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain the parboiled potatoes thoroughly using a colander and set them aside.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet; cast iron is perfect for this.
5. Add the sliced sausage and cook it for about 4-5 minutes, browning on both sides. Once it’s browned, remove it and set it aside.
6. In the same skillet, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant for about 2 minutes.
7. Add the sliced bell pepper, cooking another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
8. Return the parboiled potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat.
9. Cook everything together for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the potatoes achieve a crispy finish.
10. Finally, blend the cooked sausage back into the skillet, tossing everything until well combined. If using spinach, stir it in last during the final couple of minutes.

Garnish your creation with fresh chopped parsley just before serving. Serve hot, and enjoy a dish that radiates comfort and warmth!

A Flavorful Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Technique

A solid cooking technique enhances the flavors and textures in your sausage and potatoes skillet. Parboiling potatoes is essential for this recipe. Doing so ensures they develop that crispy exterior when finished in the skillet. Use a large pot to allow the potatoes to cook evenly.

Crafting the perfect skillet is all in the timing. Each ingredient has its moment. Start with the sausage to lay down a strong flavor base, followed by aromatics that build up as the dish progresses. Keep a close eye on the vegetables, stirring regularly to avoid burning while achieving that lovely golden-brown color.

Tips/Tricks

1. Potato Prep: When selecting baby potatoes, pick uniform sizes to promote even cooking. If they are larger, cut them into smaller pieces for consistency.
2. Sausage Choice: Any flavorful sausage you prefer will work. A spicier option might add a zing, while a milder variety keeps it family-friendly.
3. Custom Seasoning: Feel free to get creative with your chosen seasonings. A sprinkle of cayenne or chili powder can lend a kick to if you like a bolder flavor.
4. Don’t Rush: Allow time to really brown the potatoes and sausage. Hurrying the process may prevent achieving that delightful texture.

Perfecting Your Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Perfecting Results

To achieve the best results, cook the potatoes until they’re just tender during the parboiling phase. This crucial step prevents them from becoming mushy in the skillet, preserving their integrity for that perfect crispy bite.

Constant stirring while cooking, especially with the potatoes, can enhance even browning. The residual fat rendered from the sausage infuses everything beautifully, marrying the flavors and ensuring maximum taste in every bite.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Should things go awry, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Sticking: If the potatoes stick to the skillet, ensure enough oil is in the pan. Scrape the bottom periodically to lift any stuck bits.
• Overcooked Ingredients: If your veggies cook faster than anticipated, remove them promptly to maintain the ideal texture.

Explore variation opportunities by throwing in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn. Each will bring its own flavor component to the skillet, keeping the dish fresh each time you make it.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Serving/Presentation

Serve the sausage and potatoes skillet directly from the pan for a casual, inviting presentation. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds not just a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.

Consider using a large wooden spoon or spatula for serving, allowing guests to help themselves. The communal nature of this dining experience fosters a lovely family atmosphere.

Pairings/Storage

This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or a side of crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices. For a delightful pairing, consider a side of crisp and tangy coleslaw to elevate the meal.

To store leftovers, let the skillet cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, allowing it to regain its delightful texture and flavor.

Cooking a sausage and potatoes skillet embodies the ease of gathering family for a nourishing weeknight meal. Every component merges into a single pot of pure comfort, delivering warmth and flavor.

Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring smoked sausage, golden baby potatoes, and colorful bell peppers, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Place the halved or quartered baby potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain the parboiled potatoes and set aside.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet.
5. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
7. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
8. Return the parboiled potatoes to the skillet, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and stir to coat.
9. Cook together for 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are crispy.
10. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss to combine. If using, add the spinach during the last couple of minutes.
11. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize with additional seasonal vegetables or spices for an extra kick.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: sausage, potatoes, skillet, one-pan meal, weeknight dinner