There’s something deeply comforting about the crackle of sausage and potatoes sizzling together in a hot skillet. The aroma is rich and savory, with hints of garlic and herbs that practically pull everyone into the kitchen before dinner is even served.
I first made this Sausage and Potatoes Skillet on a chilly fall evening when I needed a quick, hearty meal that didn’t require a trip to the store. What started as a “clean out the fridge” experiment has now become a weekly staple—easy, filling, and endlessly adaptable.
Whether you're cooking for two or feeding a hungry crowd, this one-pan wonder is sure to please. Let’s dive into what makes this dish such a standout.
Why You'll Love This Sausage And Potatoes Skillet
Get ready to fall in love with a skillet dinner that checks all the boxes: comforting, affordable, and ready in no time. This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is everything a busy home cook could want.
First, it's incredibly quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you can go from prep to plate in under 40 minutes. Perfect for those evenings when takeout is tempting but you still want a homemade touch.
It’s also budget-friendly. Potatoes and sausage are both affordable pantry staples, making this recipe a great option when you’re watching your grocery bill. A little goes a long way, and the result feels way more indulgent than it is.
Let’s not forget how family-friendly it is. The smoky sausage and crispy potatoes appeal to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, you can sneak in some veggies if you’re looking to round it out nutritionally.
And lastly, it’s wildly versatile. Switch up the sausage, toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand, or add eggs on top for a brunch-style twist. The skillet is your canvas.
This dish is one of those “toss it together and trust the process” kind of meals—no fuss, no stress, just pure comfort in every bite.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in how a few humble ingredients come together to create something truly satisfying. Each one has its role to play in bringing out the full flavor of the dish.
Let’s start with the potatoes. You can use red, Yukon gold, or even russet—just make sure they’re chopped into evenly sized pieces for even cooking. I personally love Yukon golds for their buttery texture and ability to crisp up beautifully in the skillet.
Now onto the star: the sausage. I like using smoked kielbasa or andouille sausage for their deep, bold flavor and quick cooking time. Slice it into coins so each piece gets a little sear and caramelization.
Onions and garlic bring the dish to life. As they cook down, they release sweetness and savory depth that balances the richness of the sausage. If you’ve got bell peppers on hand, throw them in too—they add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness.
A few seasonings go a long way here. Paprika, dried thyme, and black pepper bring warmth and flavor without overpowering the main ingredients. And don’t forget a generous pinch of salt—especially on the potatoes.
As for tools, all you really need is a large, sturdy skillet—cast iron is ideal if you have one. It gives you that irresistible crispy edge on the potatoes and holds heat like a dream.
How To Make This Sausage And Potatoes Skillet
Creating this rustic skillet dinner couldn’t be simpler. With a few steps and some stovetop magic, you'll have a meal that looks and tastes like it took way more effort than it did.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice the potatoes into small cubes—about ½ inch works best. Thinly slice your sausage and onions, and have your garlic ready to go. The more even your cuts, the more evenly everything will cook.
Heat a tablespoon or two of oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes first, spreading them out into an even layer. Let them cook undisturbed for several minutes to develop a crispy golden crust, then stir occasionally until they're fork-tender—this usually takes about 15–18 minutes.
Once the potatoes are nearly done, push them to one side of the pan and add the sausage. Let it sear for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges are browned and slightly crispy. This step really boosts the flavor, so don’t rush it.
Next, stir in your onions and cook until they're soft and starting to caramelize. Add the garlic and seasonings in the last couple of minutes, stirring everything together so the flavors meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then sprinkle with fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick. Dinner is served!
The whole process takes about 35–40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t cut corners on flavor.
Storage Options
One of the best parts about this dish? Leftovers are just as tasty the next day. You can store any extra in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it an easy and delicious lunch option.
If you want to freeze it, let the skillet mixture cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just note that potatoes can soften a bit after freezing, so reheat gently for best texture.
To reheat, you can pop it in the microwave for a quick fix, but the best method is tossing it back into a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to steam everything back to life without drying it out.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep too—make a big batch and enjoy it all week long with minimal effort.
Variations and Substitutions
What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. It’s the kind of meal that welcomes creativity and adaptation with open arms.
Want to lighten things up? Try using chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork. You'll still get that meaty bite without as much fat, and it pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes or cauliflower if you're low on regular spuds.
Speaking of sweet potatoes, swapping them in gives the dish a slightly sweet, earthy twist. They cook a bit faster than white potatoes, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Add more veggies to the mix if you’d like. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach stirred in at the end will add both color and nutrition.
For a breakfast-for-dinner vibe, crack a few eggs over the top during the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet and let them cook until just set. It's a game-changer.
Finally, if you're feeling spicy, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. The heat plays beautifully with the savory richness of the sausage and potatoes.
This is a recipe you can truly make your own. Once you’ve got the base down, the variations are endless—so don’t be afraid to experiment.
PrintSausage And Potatoes Skillet Recipe
This sausage and potatoes skillet recipe is a simple and satisfying meal made with smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and savory seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
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1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
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1 bell pepper, sliced
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
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Add sausage, bell pepper, and onion to the skillet.
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Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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Cook for another 8–10 minutes, until sausage is browned and vegetables are tender.
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Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
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Use kielbasa or andouille sausage for a smoky kick.
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Yukon gold or red potatoes work best for texture.
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Add zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
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