There’s something truly comforting about the Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe that invites everyone to the table with warmth and satisfaction. This dish is a perfect harmony of smoky, savory sausage rounds mingling with golden baby potatoes nestled alongside vibrant peppers and onions, all brought together with a subtle touch of smoked paprika and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal, this skillet recipe delivers bold flavors and an appetizing, homey texture that makes every bite memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
While this Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe might look like it has a lot going on, the ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential. Each element adds its own magic, from the smoky richness of the sausage to the earthy heartiness of baby potatoes and the aromatic lift from fresh herbs and spices.
- 1 lb smoked sausage: Choose Kielbasa or Andouille for that perfect smoky flavor that anchors the dish.
- 1 lb baby potatoes: Halved or quartered, these give you the perfect bite-size tenderness and rustic appeal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy fat that helps everything brown beautifully and adds a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth as it softens in the skillet.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Choose your favorite color for a pop of vibrant sweetness and texture.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a pungent warmth that complements the sausage perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice provides an extra layer of smokiness and a gorgeous red hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers a subtle herbaceous note that balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Helps everything simmer gently, melding the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, peppery garnish that brightens the finished dish.
How to Make Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by heating your skillet with olive oil until shimmering. Add the halved or quartered baby potatoes, allowing them to cook undisturbed for about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps them develop a beautiful golden crust while getting tender inside. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning but keep it gentle so the potatoes stay intact. Once tender and slightly crisp, remove them from the skillet and set them aside—these golden nuggets are the foundation of your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced smoked sausage rounds. Let them sizzle and brown, releasing their smoky oils and flavor into the pan. After a few minutes, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for around 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies soften and become sweet and fragrant. The mix of sausage fat and olive oil infuses the entire skillet with incredible aroma and richness.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients with Seasonings
Sprinkle the smoked paprika and dried thyme over the sausage and vegetables, stirring to coat every piece with the warm, smoky spices. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper to your taste. This is where the vibrant character of the Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe truly blooms.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Return the golden potatoes to the skillet, folding them in carefully so they soak up the savory broth and spices. Let the skillet cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend all the flavors perfectly. The potatoes finish cooking while the broth reduces slightly, thickening the sauce and locking in that wonderful smoky flavor throughout.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the skillet to add a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness. The dish is now ready to serve—steaming hot, hearty, and bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic choice that adds a lively green contrast and a mild peppery touch, but don’t be shy about experimenting. Try a sprinkle of grated sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream for creamy indulgence, or a few red chili flakes if you crave a little heat. The garnishes can elevate your skillet from great to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is so satisfying that it can shine on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty rustic bread to soak up the rich juices makes for a well-rounded meal. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add a fresh veggie kick that balances the hearty flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style dinner, serve the skillet straight from the pan in the middle of the table so everyone can help themselves. Alternatively, portion it into bright bowls and top each serving with avocado slices or a fried egg for breakfast-for-dinner vibes. Presentation can be as vibrant and inviting as the dish itself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. The Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect candidate for quick lunches or next-day dinners that still have that freshly cooked taste.
Freezing
This skillet freezes beautifully, which is great if you want to plan ahead. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of potatoes may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains delicious and comforting.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry. Stir occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but reheating on the stove helps maintain the crisp edges on the potatoes and sausage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked Kielbasa or Andouille give a wonderful flavor, you can swap in other smoked or even fresh sausages depending on your preference. Just make sure to fully cook any fresh sausage before serving.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular paprika works just fine. You can also add a tiny pinch of chipotle powder for that smoky kick, just beware it’s spicier so adjust carefully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms for texture. Use vegetable broth to keep things flavorful, and consider adding smoked spices to mimic those savory notes.
Is it better to use baby potatoes or regular potatoes?
Baby potatoes are preferred for their tender, creamy flesh and size that cooks evenly and quickly. Regular potatoes can be used if cut into small, uniform pieces, but cooking time may vary.
How spicy is this skillet recipe?
This Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is mildly spiced with the paprika and sausage’s natural smokiness. You can easily adjust the heat level by choosing spicier sausage or adding chili flakes if you love a little spice in your meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that combines ease, flavor, and heartiness all in one skillet, the Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a joy to make, satisfying to eat, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hearty Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring smoky sausage, tender baby potatoes, and sautéed vegetables seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme, it comes together in just 35 minutes and serves 4. The dish is rich, savory, and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, making it a satisfying and easy-to-make skillet dinner.
Ingredients
Proteins and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Kielbasa or Andouille), sliced into rounds
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the halved or quartered baby potatoes to a skillet heated with olive oil. Cook them for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and become tender. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage along with the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the sausage browns lightly, releasing its smoky flavors.
- Combine Everything: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the sausage and vegetables with the seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fully cooked and all the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. This hearty sausage and potatoes skillet pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use Andouille sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute baby potatoes with diced red or Yukon gold potatoes.
- Vegetarian option: replace smoked sausage with smoked tempeh or plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- For extra crispiness, you can finish the potatoes under the broiler for 2-3 minutes before combining.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
