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Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pan meal that combines hearty flavors and satisfying textures – and that’s exactly what this Sausage and Potatoes Skillet brings to your dinner table. Perfectly seared sausage paired with tender potatoes and vibrant vegetables creates a rustic dish that’s not only easy to make but also an absolute delight to eat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, you’ll find that this flavorful medley is sure to become a favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

Satisfying and Hearty – It’s filling enough to please the hungriest of appetites.
Quick Cleanup – One pan means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Customizable – Adapt the ingredients based on what you have at hand or your dietary preferences.

There’s no better way to celebrate the simpler things in life than gathering around a warm skillet filled with deliciousness.

Making Sausage and Potatoes Skillet at Home

The keys to a delicious Sausage and Potatoes Skillet lie in the harmonious blend of flavors and the simplicity of preparation. Here, I will guide you through each step to ensure you create a dish bursting with taste. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a fulfilling culinary adventure!

Ingredients

To make this delightful meal, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound smoked beef sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

1. Brown the Sausage

Start by placing a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, and then toss in your sliced smoked beef sausage. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sausage pieces are beautifully browned and cooked through. Once ready, transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving any rendered fat behind in the skillet. If your skillet looks dry, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to keep things well-oiled.

2. Start the Potatoes

Next, it’s time to work on the baby potatoes. Drop them into the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for around 5 to 7 minutes over medium-high heat. This will allow them to develop a scrumptious golden-brown crust on one side. After that, give the potatoes a good stir and cook them for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing them to brown evenly on other sides. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be tantalizing!

3. Par-Cook the Potatoes

Once your potatoes have achieved that lovely golden hue, gently reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in 1/4 cup of the chicken or vegetable broth and cover the skillet with a lid immediately. Let the potatoes steam for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

4. Add Onions and Bell Peppers

Remove the lid and push the potatoes to one side of the skillet, making some room in the center. Add the diced onion and sliced bell pepper into the cleared space and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften and become slightly translucent. The colors and scents are sure to brighten up your kitchen!

5. Introduce Garlic and Spices

Create another small clearing in the center of the skillet by pushing the veggies aside once more. Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook these spices for about 30 to 60 seconds, stirring constantly. The key here is to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn, as its flavor is essential to the dish.

6. Combine and Deglaze

Carefully stir the fragrant garlic and spices into the onions and bell peppers, mixing everything thoroughly. Now it’s time to return the beautifully grilled sausage to the skillet. Pour in the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth, and use your spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (this is known as deglazing, and it adds incredible flavor!).

7. Simmer and Finish

Stir everything together to combine the ingredients well. Let the skillet simmer uncovered for another 5 to 7 minutes, so the flavors meld together, and any excess liquid can reduce. By this point, the potatoes should be perfectly tender, the vegetables nicely softened, and the sausage heated through. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your palate.

8. Add Spinach (Optional) and Garnish

If you’re adding spinach, now’s the time to stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until just wilted. When it’s almost done, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle a generous amount of chopped fresh parsley over the top. Dish out your Sausage and Potatoes Skillet hot from the pan, ready to serve.

Storage Tips for Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Proper storage of leftover sausage and potatoes skillet is essential for keeping it fresh and delicious for later meals. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days at 40°F or below.
Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the skillet for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

Best Ways to Serve Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, drinks, and garnishes, enhancing your dining experience. Here are some ideas:

Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the skillet.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of freshly baked bread to soak up any remaining juices – perfect for sopping up every last bit of flavor.
Quiet Evenings: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer for casual evenings.
Family Gatherings: Pair it with a warm dish of cornbread, where the sweetness balances the smoky sausage.

Tips to Make Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish and ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

Key Tip: Always cook your sausage until it is nicely browned for the best flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also adds incredible depth to the dish.
Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for visual appeal and added flavor.
If you want an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when you introduce the garlic and spices.
For a creamier texture, finish the skillet off with a drizzle of heavy cream being careful not to overpower the dish.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking for something a little different or wish to cater this recipe to your taste, here are a couple of variations to consider:

Switch the Sausage: If you prefer a lighter option, consider swapping the smoked beef sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage.
Experiment with Vegetables: If bell peppers and onions aren’t your favorites, you can replace them with zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli. The choice of seasonal vegetables can make this dish exciting and new every time you prepare it.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the components in advance and simply warm them up when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will develop even further over time.

Q: Can I use other meats, such as chicken?

A: Absolutely! While smoked beef sausage adds a robust flavor, feel free to swap it out for chicken thighs or any preferred meat. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly.

Q: How do I store leftovers properly?

Refrigerate the dish within 2 hours of cooking.
Ensure it is placed in an airtight container, and use it within 3-4 days.
If freezing, place it in a freezer-safe container with the date labeled for future reference.

With the right ingredients and some easy steps, you can enjoy the delightful taste of a homemade Sausage and Potatoes Skillet. Whether you are planning a cozy night in or just need a quick meal idea, this recipe is versatile enough to be dressed up or down. Embrace the comforting flavors and enjoy every bite!