The best potato and sausage recipe combines crispy roasted potatoes with perfectly browned sausage in a single pan. For a classic version, you'll need 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (cubed), 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced), 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion (diced), 3 garlic cloves, 1 tsp rosemary, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 35-40 minutes until potatoes are golden and sausage is cooked through. This one-pan meal serves 4 and takes just 15 minutes of prep time.
The Ultimate Potato and Sausage Skillet: Comfort Food Perfection
Potato and sausage recipes have stood the test of time for good reason. This hearty combination delivers satisfying comfort with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend brunches. Unlike many online recipes that compromise on texture or flavor balance, this version achieves crispy potatoes and perfectly caramelized sausage without requiring multiple pans or complicated techniques.Why This Potato and Sausage Recipe Works
What separates an average potato and sausage dish from an exceptional one? The secret lies in three critical elements:- Proper potato preparation - Parboiling ensures tender interiors while allowing exteriors to crisp
- Sausage selection - Smoked sausage provides depth without needing additional seasonings
- Temperature control - Starting hot then finishing at moderate heat prevents burning
Ingredients for Perfect Potato and Sausage
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 1.5 lbs | Cut into 3/4-inch cubes, uniform size |
| Smoked sausage | 1 lb | Andouille or kielbasa, 1/2-inch slices |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Plus extra for finishing |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium | Finely diced |
| Garlic cloves | 3 | Minced |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 tsp | Finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried) |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
Equipment Checklist
- Large pot for parboiling potatoes
- 12-inch cast iron or oven-safe skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep potatoes - Place cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water plus 1 inch. Add 1 tsp salt. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Preheat oven - Set to 400°F (200°C). Position rack in upper third of oven.
- Sear sausage - Heat 1 tbsp oil in skillet over medium-high. Add sausage in single layer, cook 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook aromatics - In same skillet, add onion and remaining oil. Cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and rosemary, cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and roast - Return sausage to skillet. Add parboiled potatoes, tossing to coat. Spread in even layer. Roast 35-40 minutes, stirring once halfway, until potatoes are golden and crispy.
- Finish - Remove from oven, season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Dry potatoes thoroughly after parboiling - moisture prevents proper browning
- Don't overcrowd the skillet - use two skillets if necessary to maintain proper heat distribution
- Let potatoes sit undisturbed for first 15 minutes of roasting to develop crust
- Add fresh herbs after cooking to preserve their bright flavor
- For extra crispiness, finish under broiler for 2-3 minutes (watch carefully)
Variations to Try
This versatile potato and sausage recipe adapts beautifully to different preferences:- Breakfast version - Use breakfast sausage and add bell peppers. Top with fried eggs
- Healthy alternative - Swap half the potatoes for sweet potatoes and use turkey sausage
- Creamy twist - Stir in 1/4 cup sour cream and 2 tbsp chives after roasting
- Spicy kick - Add 1/2 tsp cayenne or sliced jalapeños with the onions
- Vegetable boost - Toss in 1 cup broccoli florets during the last 15 minutes of roasting
Serving Suggestions
This one pan potato and sausage dinner pairs perfectly with:- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Crusty bread for soaking up flavorful juices
- Applesauce for a traditional German-inspired meal
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration - Store in airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezing - Not recommended as potatoes become grainy when frozen
- Reheating - For best results, reheat in oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy
- Microwave alternative - Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, but expect softer texture
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this potato and sausage recipe without parboiling the potatoes?
While you can skip parboiling, you'll likely end up with either undercooked potatoes or overcooked sausage. Parboiling for just 5 minutes ensures the potatoes finish cooking at the same time as the sausage achieves perfect crispness. If you must skip this step, cut potatoes smaller (1/2-inch cubes) and increase roasting time by 10-15 minutes, checking frequently.
What's the best sausage to use for potato and sausage skillet?
Smoked sausage varieties like kielbasa or andouille work best because they hold their shape during cooking and provide deep flavor without additional seasonings. For breakfast versions, use maple-flavored breakfast sausage. Avoid fresh Italian sausage as it releases too much fat and can make the potatoes greasy.
How can I prevent my potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Proper pan preheating and adequate oil are crucial. Heat your skillet for 3-5 minutes before adding oil, then let the oil get hot (shimmering but not smoking) before adding ingredients. Don't stir the potatoes during the first 15 minutes of roasting - this allows a crust to form that naturally releases from the pan. Using a well-seasoned cast iron skillet also helps prevent sticking.
Can I add other vegetables to this potato and sausage recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and broccoli work particularly well. Add harder vegetables like carrots at the beginning with the potatoes. Softer vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms should be added during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Leafy greens like spinach can be stirred in during the last 5 minutes. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will steam rather than roast the ingredients.
Is this potato and sausage recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this one pan potato and sausage dinner is excellent for meal prep. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a day. Portion into containers with a side of greens or additional vegetables. When reheating, the oven method preserves the best texture, though microwave works in a pinch. The dish maintains quality for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for weekly planning.
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