Sausage And Potatoes Skillet

In the whirlwind of busy weeknights, finding a dinner that is both quick to prepare and satisfying for the whole family can feel like searching for a culinary unicorn. For years, my kitchen has been a testing ground for recipes that promise ease and flavor, and let me tell you, the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet has emerged as a clear winner. From picky eaters to adventurous palates, everyone in my household devours this dish with gusto. The smoky sausage, perfectly browned potatoes, and vibrant vegetables create a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. What I love most about this recipe, beyond its deliciousness, is its sheer versatility. It’s a blank canvas for your creativity, allowing you to adapt it to your family’s preferences and whatever ingredients you have on hand. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing experience that brings everyone together around the table, and that, in my book, is priceless. Get ready to discover your new weeknight dinner staple – the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is about to become your kitchen hero.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet recipe thrives on simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s robust flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Sausage (1 pound): Choose your favorite type of sausage! Italian sausage (sweet or hot), kielbasa, chorizo, or even smoked sausage all work wonderfully. For a leaner option, consider chicken or turkey sausage. The sausage provides the protein and a deep savory flavor base for the entire skillet.
• Potatoes (2 pounds): Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for skillet cooking. They hold their shape well and become beautifully creamy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Avoid russet potatoes, as they can become too dry in a skillet. Potatoes are the hearty carbohydrate that makes this meal substantial and filling.
• Onion (1 large): A yellow or white onion provides a foundational aromatic sweetness as it caramelizes in the skillet. Onion adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
• Bell Peppers (2, any color): Bell peppers contribute sweetness, vibrant color, and a touch of freshness. Use a mix of colors like red, yellow, and green for visual appeal and a broader range of flavors. Bell peppers also add essential vitamins and nutrients.
• Garlic (3-4 cloves): Fresh garlic is essential for adding pungent and savory notes. It enhances the flavors of the sausage, potatoes, and vegetables. Minced garlic infuses the oil and creates a fragrant base for the dish.
• Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): Use extra virgin olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables and sausage, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
• Dried Herbs (2 teaspoons total): A blend of dried herbs like Italian seasoning, oregano, thyme, rosemary, or paprika adds layers of flavor and aroma. Herbs complement the savory notes of the sausage and potatoes, creating a well-rounded taste.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dish. Season generously to taste throughout the cooking process.
• Chicken Broth or Water (1/4 cup): A little liquid helps to steam the potatoes and vegetables, ensuring they cook through without burning. Chicken broth adds extra flavor, but water works just as well.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled over the finished dish. It brightens the overall presentation and adds a subtle herbaceous note.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Skillet Perfection

Creating this Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time:

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Sausage: Start by washing and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces, about ¾-inch cubes. If using larger potatoes, you may need to halve or quarter them first. Peel and slice the onion into half-moons or chop it, depending on your preference. Remove the seeds and membranes from the bell peppers and slice them into strips or chop them into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. If using sausage links, slice them into ½-inch thick rounds. If using bulk sausage, you can crumble it as you cook.
2. Sauté the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon if using bulk sausage, until it is browned on all sides and cooked through. If using sausage links, cook until browned and heated through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave any rendered sausage fat in the skillet – this will add flavor to the vegetables. If there is excessive fat, you can drain off a little, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Onions and Peppers: Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet if needed. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent and the peppers are slightly tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. As the vegetables cook, they will release their natural sugars and begin to caramelize, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
4. Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic and dried herbs to the skillet with the onions and peppers. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter quickly. Cooking the garlic and herbs in the oil releases their aromas and infuses the vegetables with flavor.
5. Add Potatoes and Broth/Water: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Pour in the chicken broth or water. Stir everything together well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – these browned bits are packed with flavor and will deglaze the pan.
6. Cover and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The steam trapped under the lid will help the potatoes cook through and become tender. Check the potatoes for doneness after 15 minutes and continue simmering if needed.
7. Return Sausage and Brown: Remove the lid from the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the potatoes and vegetables. Cook, uncovered, for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and vegetables are nicely browned and slightly crispy around the edges. This step allows excess liquid to evaporate and the potatoes to develop a golden-brown crust.
8. Season to Taste and Serve: Taste the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and satisfying one-pan meal!

Nutrition Facts: Fueling Your Body with Goodness (Per Serving, Approximate)

This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of macronutrients and some essential vitamins and minerals. Please note that the exact nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used (type of sausage, potatoes, etc.) and portion sizes. The following are approximate values per serving, assuming 4 servings from the recipe:

• Servings: 4 – This recipe is designed to comfortably serve four adults, making it ideal for a family dinner or meal prepping for a small household.
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal – A satisfying calorie range for a hearty and complete meal. The calorie count can vary based on the type of sausage and the amount of oil used.
• Protein: 25-30 grams – Sausage is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as promoting satiety. Protein helps keep you feeling full and satisfied after your meal.
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams – Primarily from potatoes and vegetables, providing energy for your body. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of fuel and are important for brain function and physical activity.
• Fat: 25-35 grams – The fat content comes from the sausage and olive oil. While some fat is essential for health, choosing leaner sausages and using olive oil in moderation can help manage the overall fat content. Fat is important for hormone production, nutrient absorption, and providing long-lasting energy.

Note: These are estimated nutritional values. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe.

Preparation Time: Quick and Efficient Cooking

One of the greatest advantages of the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is its minimal preparation time. From start to finish, you can have this flavorful meal on the table in a relatively short amount of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes – This includes washing and chopping the vegetables, slicing the sausage, and mincing the garlic. Efficient knife skills will help you speed up the prep process.
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes – This encompasses the time for sautéing the sausage and vegetables, simmering the potatoes until tender, and browning everything to perfection. The total cook time might vary slightly depending on the size of your potato cubes and the heat of your stovetop.
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes – In under an hour, you can have a complete, flavorful, and satisfying meal ready to serve. This quick turnaround makes it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when time is limited.

How to Serve: Versatile Serving Suggestions

The Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is delicious on its own as a complete meal, but its versatility allows for various serving options to enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

• As a Standalone Meal: Simply serve the skillet directly from the pan! This rustic and hearty presentation is perfect for casual family dinners.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet and adds extra vegetables to your meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside slices of crusty bread, like baguette or sourdough, for soaking up the delicious pan juices and adding a satisfying carb element.
• Topped with Cheese: For extra indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan, over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking or just before serving. Let the cheese melt and become gooey and delicious.
• With a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang that complements the savory flavors of the skillet and provides a cooling contrast.
• With a Fried Egg: For a brunch or “breakfast for dinner” twist, top each serving with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor to the dish.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: For a different textural experience, serve the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. These grains absorb the flavorful pan juices and create a more substantial meal.
• As Leftovers (Reheated or Cold): This skillet dish is fantastic as leftovers! Reheat it in the microwave or skillet, or enjoy it cold as a hearty lunch or picnic item. The flavors often meld together even more beautifully overnight.

Additional Tips: Elevating Your Skillet Game

While this recipe is already fantastic as is, here are some additional tips and tricks to take your Sausage and Potatoes Skillet to the next level and customize it to your preferences:

1. Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Experiment with different types of sausage to discover your favorites. Sweet Italian sausage offers a mild and savory flavor, while hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick. Chorizo brings a smoky and robust flavor, and kielbasa provides a classic smoky and garlicky taste. Consider chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
2. Potato Variety Matters: While Yukon Gold and red potatoes are recommended, you can also use other waxy potato varieties like fingerling potatoes. Avoid russet potatoes as they can become too dry and crumbly in a skillet. Ensure your potatoes are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the sausage and vegetables in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and prevent proper browning. If your skillet is small, consider cooking the sausage and vegetables in separate batches and then combining them.
4. Season Generously at Each Step: Season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, not just at the end. Seasoning the sausage, vegetables, and potatoes at each stage helps to build layers of flavor and ensures that the entire dish is well-seasoned.
5. Add a Touch of Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the dried herbs or use hot Italian sausage. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the bell peppers for extra heat.
6. Incorporate More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your skillet, such as sliced carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Add them in stages, depending on their cooking time, to ensure they are cooked through but not overcooked.
7. Deglaze the Pan with Wine or Broth: After sautéing the sausage and vegetables, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth before adding the potatoes. This will lift up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet and add extra depth of flavor to the dish.
8. Finish with Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are used during cooking, finishing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano adds a burst of freshness and aroma. Fresh herbs brighten the flavors and enhance the overall presentation.

FAQ: Your Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet to help you troubleshoot and customize the recipe:

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet ahead of time. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. The flavors often meld together even better overnight.

Q2: Can I freeze the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet?
A: Yes, this skillet dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Potatoes can sometimes become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor and texture will still be delicious.

Q3: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use different types of waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerling potatoes. Avoid russet potatoes as they can become too dry and crumbly in a skillet.

Q4: Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs?
A: Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs. As a general rule, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano. Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and freshness.

Q5: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or chickpeas. For a vegan version, ensure you are using plant-based sausage and olive oil. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q6: How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
A: Ensure you are using enough oil in the skillet and preheating it properly before adding the potatoes. Stir the potatoes occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking. Using a cast iron or stainless steel skillet and not overcrowding the pan also helps prevent sticking.

Q7: My potatoes are not cooking through. What should I do?
A: If your potatoes are not cooking through, ensure they are cut into small, uniform pieces. Covering the skillet and simmering the potatoes in broth or water helps them steam and cook through. If they are still not tender after simmering, you can add a little more liquid and continue simmering until they are tender.

Q8: Can I add cheese to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese are all delicious additions. Sprinkle cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking or just before serving and let it melt and become gooey. You can also broil it briefly for a browned and bubbly cheese topping.

With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and incredible flavor, the Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is a recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s a comforting, versatile, and family-friendly meal that you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. Enjoy the deliciousness and ease of this skillet wonder!

Print