Sausage And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

There's something undeniably cozy about the sizzling aroma of sausage and potatoes browning together in a cast iron skillet. The crispy-edged potatoes, juicy bites of sausage, and golden caramelized onions all come together in one delicious, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

I first whipped this up on a chilly weeknight when the fridge was looking sparse—just a pack of smoked sausage, a few potatoes, and half an onion left. What started as a throw-together dinner has now become a go-to family favorite for its simplicity, affordability, and pure comfort.

Let’s dive into what makes this one-pan wonder so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Get ready to meet your new weeknight hero. This sausage and potatoes skillet isn't just a dinner—it’s a lifesaver when time, ingredients, and energy are all running low.

First of all, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just one pan and a few pantry staples, you’ve got a full meal that requires minimal prep and even less cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like making a fuss.

It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just potatoes, sausage, and a couple of extras you probably already have on hand. It’s proof that delicious food doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Another thing you’ll love? This dish is endlessly adaptable. Add bell peppers, toss in some spinach, or swap in sweet potatoes. It’s the kind of recipe that lets you get creative and clean out your fridge at the same time.

Finally, it’s family-approved. Even picky eaters love the combination of crispy potatoes and savory sausage. Whether served for dinner or even breakfast with a fried egg on top, it’s always a hit.

Now that you’re fully convinced, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this sausage and potatoes skillet lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings its own flavor and texture to the party, working together for a satisfying, crave-worthy bite in every forkful.

Let’s start with the potatoes. I recommend using Yukon gold or red potatoes for the perfect balance of creaminess and crispiness. Leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients—they crisp up beautifully in the skillet. Chop them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and get those golden brown edges we all love.

Next, the sausage. I usually go with smoked kielbasa or andouille for that bold, savory flavor. Pre-cooked sausage makes this recipe extra easy, since all you need to do is slice and sear it until it’s golden and caramelized. You can also try it with spicy Italian sausage for a little extra kick.

Onions play a quiet but crucial role here. As they cook, they mellow out and become sweet, pairing perfectly with the salty sausage and earthy potatoes. A yellow or sweet onion works best, but red onion can add a pop of color if that’s what you’ve got.

For added richness and flavor, a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or butter help the potatoes crisp up and keep everything from sticking. A sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper ties it all together—basic seasonings, but they work magic here.

You’ll need a large skillet or cast iron pan, ideally 12 inches, to give everything enough room to cook properly. A lid is helpful for steaming the potatoes partway through cooking, but not essential if you’re patient and stir often.

How To Make This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

This one-pan dinner is as straightforward as they come, but a few smart steps make all the difference between average and amazing. Here’s how to get it just right.

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding a good glug of olive oil or a mix of oil and butter. Once it’s hot and shimmering, add your chopped potatoes. Give them a toss to coat, then cover the skillet with a lid or foil for about 8-10 minutes. This lets the steam begin softening the potatoes before they crisp up.

After the potatoes start to soften, remove the lid and let them cook uncovered, stirring every few minutes. You want them to develop golden-brown edges while cooking through completely. This takes another 10-15 minutes depending on your stove and the size of your potato pieces.

Once the potatoes are about 90% done, push them to the side of the skillet and add your sliced sausage. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes per side without moving it too much—this gives it a beautiful, browned crust and boosts the flavor.

Next, stir in your sliced onions and sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over everything. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and everything is well combined.

At this point, your skillet should be full of sizzling, golden deliciousness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you like things spicy, now’s a great time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.

From start to finish, this meal takes about 30-35 minutes. It’s fast, fuss-free, and every bit as comforting as it looks.

Storage Options

This sausage and potatoes skillet makes great leftovers, and you’ll be glad to have them.

Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well and can even be eaten cold as a quick lunch on the go.

For freezing, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It’ll keep for up to 2 months, though the potatoes may soften slightly upon reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil to bring back that crispy texture. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have or what you're craving.

Swap the sausage for ground beef, turkey, or even tofu crumbles if you're going meatless. Just be sure to brown it well for maximum flavor.

Instead of regular potatoes, try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, earthier version. They caramelize beautifully and pair especially well with spicy sausage.

Add veggies to the mix for extra nutrition and color. Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini are all great options. Just stir them in toward the end so they don’t overcook.

Change up the spices to suit your mood. Try Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or a dash of curry powder to give the dish a new twist without extra effort.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this skillet is forgiving and totally customizable. Once you’ve made it once or twice, you’ll start creating your own signature version in no time.

Let this easy, delicious meal become your go-to solution for busy nights, lazy weekends, or any time comfort food is calling your name.

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