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Loaded with bold flavors, this smoky, one-pan dish throws together golden potatoes and juicy sausage—dinner's done in under half an hour. The way every bite combines soft insides and crispy outsides keeps this meal on regular repeat at our house.
This meal came together on a night when time was tight and bellies were rumbling. Since then, my crew asks for it every couple of weeks because they love picking their own toppings and making it their own.
Delicious Ingredients
- Rounds of smoked sausage: This is your go-to protein with deep smoky goodness—pick a USA brand with specks of spice inside.
- Russet potatoes: These bring crunch on the outside, fluffiness in the middle. Go for ones that feel solid and don't have any greenish tinge.
- Red bell pepper and onion: Sweet flavor and pops of color balance everything out.
- Cloves of fresh garlic: Using the real deal cranks out way more flavor than the dried stuff.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Gets those potatoes and sausages extra crispy and tasty.
- Smoked paprika: This ramps up the smoky taste. Look for a robust Spanish-style one for max flavor.
- Garlic powder: Makes sure there’s garlic in every single bite.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Just a sprinkle brings a burst of freshness and greenness over the top.
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring It All Together:
- Toss those crispy taters back in, combine gently so you don’t squish them, and let everything mingle on low for a few minutes. Check the taste and throw in a pinch more spice if you want.
- Get Those Veggies Going:
- Mix your chopped peppers and onions with the browned sausage. Stir often for about 4 minutes, until onions get soft and lightly golden. Stir in fresh garlic for just a minute—if it goes brown, it gets bitter quick.
- Brown That Sausage:
- Add a bit more oil to your pan, then lay out your sausage coins in one even layer. Let them sizzle for a couple minutes before flipping so they get a nice crust, about 3-4 minutes total, to bring on that savory flavor.
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Chop up your potatoes into small cubes so they cook the same speed. Warm oil in your biggest skillet until it’s nice and shimmery. Dump potatoes in and toss with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Sizzle untouched for a few minutes, then turn to catch all sides golden. You’ll need roughly 10-12 minutes for crispy outsides. Scoop them out and set aside.
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Honestly, smoked paprika is what makes this whole meal next level. I used it by mistake one night instead of the regular kind and never went back. It gives the food a rich, almost slow-cooked taste—even when you make it fast.
Easy Make-Ahead Options
If you wanna save time on busy nights, chop up all your veggies a day or two ahead and stash them in containers in the fridge. You could even par-cook those potatoes, cool them off, and refrigerate. Then when you’re ready to cook, just brown the sausage first, toss in the veggies, then add the almost-done potatoes to finish. You’ll be eating in like 15 minutes flat.
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Tasty Variations to Try
This is your base for any spin you want. Go spicy-Cajun with andouille sausage and a good shake of Cajun seasoning. Give it an Italian vibe: grab Italian sausage, toss in bell peppers, and some Italian herb mix. If you want breakfast, stir in scrambled eggs near the end. For extra hearty, toss in canned white beans or corn once everything’s together. There’s no end to how you can riff on this meal.
Serving Suggestions Worth Trying
Bring the skillet right to the dinner table for an easy meal. I love it with a crisp side salad with a splash of tangy vinaigrette—keeps things from feeling too heavy. Need to feed a bunch? Slice up some crunchy bread for dipping. Around here, we pile on toppings like cheddar, green onions, hot sauce, and sour cream so everyone gets the plate just how they like it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Definitely! Swap in kielbasa, chorizo, or chicken sausage if you want. Each option gives the meal a different vibe.
- → How do I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, toss in some chili flakes, sprinkle on cayenne, or slather on hot sauce just before eating.
- → Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Totally! Sweet potatoes work great and add a little sweetness. Just keep an eye on the cook time and adjust if needed.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet goes nicely with a green side salad, a chunk of crusty bread, or even a pile of steamed veggies.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can. Just whip it up and reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to dig in, though it’s best right away.
- → Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Sure! Grab a plant-based sausage or load up on extra things like zucchini or mushrooms to keep it filling.