Description
Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet
Ingredients
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow onion, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Potatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Place the halved potatoes cut-side down and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and slightly crispy. Stir occasionally.
Add Veggies:
Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender.
Combine & Heat Through:
Return the sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
Garnish & Serve:
Top with fresh thyme for a burst of flavor and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect skillet meal every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped before heating your skillet. Use a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution. When browning the sausage, avoid overcrowding to get a proper sear. For the potatoes, pressing them cut-side down and not moving them for the first few minutes is key to achieving a crispy, golden crust. When adding the vegetables, stir them in with the potatoes so the flavors meld. The final combine step is brief, just to reheat the sausage and let the flavors marry.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with several sides. For a fresh contrast, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. A dollop of whole-grain mustard or creamy horseradish sauce on the side adds a tangy kick. To make it a brunch, top each serving with a fried egg. Crusty bread is also excellent for soaking up any delicious pan juices.
How-to Summary
In summary, this is a simple one-pan process: brown the sausage, remove it, then cook potatoes until crispy. Add peppers, onion, and garlic with seasonings until tender. Finally, return the sausage to the skillet to heat through, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes. Yukon Gold or red potatoes cut into 1-inch cubes work well. Adjust cooking time slightly if pieces are larger.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture, or microwave in 60-second intervals.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the potatoes can become grainy and the vegetables mushy upon thawing and reheating.
Can I make this recipe spicier? Absolutely. Use andouille sausage, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the paprika, or include sliced jalapeños with the other vegetables.
What if my potatoes aren’t getting tender? If potatoes are still hard after browning, add 2-3 tablespoons of water or broth to the skillet, cover with a lid, and steam for 3-5 minutes until fork-tender before proceeding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet when browning the sausage and potatoes, which steams them instead of creating a flavorful sear.
- Stirring the potatoes too soon after placing them cut-side down; let them develop a crust.
- Adding the garlic too early, which can cause it to burn and turn bitter. Add it with the other vegetables.
- Underseasoning. Potatoes need a generous amount of salt. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Conclusion
This Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet is the epitome of easy, satisfying comfort food. With minimal prep, one pan, and 30 minutes, you have a flavorful, hearty dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Its versatility allows for easy ingredient swaps based on what you have on hand, making it a reliable staple for busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try for a delicious, no-fuss meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.