One-Pan Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

One-Pan Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is the perfect solution for a quick, hearty, and satisfying meal. Combining the smoky richness of sausage with the creamy texture of potatoes and the freshness of bell peppers, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors. With a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal prep, this skillet meal is ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Enjoy this flavorful dish as a standalone meal or pair it with a side salad for an easy and complete dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • Smoked Sausage: 1 lb, sliced
  • Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: 4-5 medium, diced
  • Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 green, sliced
  • Onion: 1 large, sliced
  • Olive Oil: 2-3 tablespoons
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon (smoked or regular)
  • Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
  • Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  2. Slice the sausage into 1/4-inch rounds.
  3. Slice the bell peppers and onion.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. You may need to add a bit more oil if the potatoes start sticking.
  3. Once the potatoes are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

  1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary.
  2. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on both sides.
  3. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside with the potatoes.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add another small drizzle of olive oil to the skillet if needed.
  2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly.
  3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning over the vegetables, stirring to coat.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

  1. Return the cooked potatoes and sausage to the skillet, mixing everything together.
  2. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften further.
  3. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.
  2. Serve warm, either on its own or alongside a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Sodium: 900mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes! While smoked sausage gives a rich, smoky flavor, you can use kielbasa, chorizo, or even a spicy Italian sausage for a different taste.

Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: This recipe is versatile. Consider adding zucchini, mushrooms, or even chopped tomatoes for more flavor and color.

Q: Do I have to cook the potatoes separately?
A: Cooking the potatoes first helps them get crispy and ensures they’re fully cooked by the end. However, you could partially boil the potatoes first if you’re short on time.

Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yes, both russet and Yukon Gold potatoes work well. Red potatoes can also be used but may have a softer texture.

Tips for Making the Best One-Pan Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

  • Use a Large Skillet: To prevent overcrowding, use a large skillet. Overcrowding can cause the ingredients to steam instead of brown.
  • Get the Potatoes Crisp: For crispy potatoes, make sure the skillet is hot before adding them, and avoid stirring too frequently.
  • Brown the Sausage: Browning the sausage in the skillet caramelizes it, adding flavor to the whole dish.
  • Adjust Seasonings to Taste: If you enjoy more herbs or spices, feel free to add extra Italian seasoning or swap in smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
  • Serve with a Side Dish: This skillet meal pairs well with simple side dishes like a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a light vegetable soup.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the potatoes may become slightly softer upon thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Meal Prep: This recipe makes great leftovers, so consider doubling the batch if you want to meal prep for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

One-Pan Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or lazy weekend. With just one pan and a handful of pantry ingredients, you can whip up this filling dish that everyone will enjoy. The smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and colorful bell peppers come together in a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Plus, cleanup is a breeze thanks to the single-skillet cooking method.

Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or preparing it for meals throughout the week, this versatile recipe is bound to become a favorite in your rotation.