There's something irresistibly cozy about the sizzle of sausage and potatoes hitting a hot skillet. The crispy edges on the potatoes, the juicy bite of the sausage, and the caramelized onions create a harmony of flavors that feels both hearty and satisfying.
I first whipped this up on a chilly weeknight with just a few ingredients left in my pantry. Since then, it’s become a go-to in our house — a one-pan wonder that’s quick, easy, and budget-friendly, perfect for busy evenings when you want real comfort without the fuss.
Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this skillet delivers on every level. Let’s get into why you’ll want to make it tonight.
Why You'll Love This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet
Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight meal. This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is more than just tasty – it’s a one-pan miracle for those who love easy cleanup and big flavors.
First, it’s an absolute time-saver. You can have dinner on the table in just about 35 minutes from start to finish. With minimal prep and only one pan, it’s ideal for nights when you’re short on time but still craving something hearty.
It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples and some sausage, you can whip up a meal that feeds four for under $10. No need for fancy ingredients — simple flavors shine here.
This recipe is a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner. Everything cooks in one large skillet, layering flavor as it goes.
And the best part? It’s super versatile. You can use any kind of sausage, swap in sweet potatoes, or toss in veggies like bell peppers or green beans. It's the kind of meal that adapts to whatever you have on hand.
Once you try it, you’ll keep this one in heavy rotation. Now let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. These humble ingredients come together to create something far greater than the sum of their parts — rustic, flavorful, and so satisfying.
Potatoes are the heart of this recipe. I prefer using Yukon Golds or red potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to crisp up beautifully. Just be sure to cut them into even chunks so they cook evenly. If you’re short on time, parboiling them for a few minutes can speed things up.
For the sausage, go with your favorite variety. I love using smoked sausage or kielbasa for their bold, savory flavor and the way they caramelize in the pan. Italian sausage also works well, especially if you like a bit of spice.
Onions and garlic add that extra layer of depth. The onions turn sweet and golden as they cook, soaking up all the sausage drippings. A few cloves of minced garlic round it out with a savory punch.
To boost flavor even more, a sprinkle of paprika, Italian seasoning, and a touch of salt and pepper go a long way. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes is optional but adds a lovely heat if you like things spicy.
As for equipment, you’ll need a large, heavy-bottomed skillet — preferably cast iron — to get those crispy edges on the potatoes and sausage. A good spatula or wooden spoon is all you need to stir it up.
How To Make This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Making this skillet couldn’t be easier, and the reward is a dish that tastes like it took hours to make. Here’s how to bring it all together.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash and dice the potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. Thinly slice your sausage, chop the onions, and mince the garlic. Keep everything ready to go — the cooking process moves quickly once the pan is hot.
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil (olive oil or avocado oil work great here). Once the oil is shimmering, add the potatoes in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the bottoms start to brown, then flip and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until mostly tender.
Next, push the potatoes to one side and add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Let the sausage sear for a few minutes until browned on both sides. The goal here is caramelization — it deepens the flavor and gives the sausage that irresistible crisp.
Once the sausage is browned, stir everything together and add the onions and garlic. Cook for 4-5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden and the garlic is fragrant.
Now’s the time to season. Sprinkle in your paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Give it all a good stir so the spices coat every bite.
From start to finish, this dish takes about 35 minutes, and the result is a hearty, rustic skillet full of golden potatoes and juicy sausage, all kissed with warm spices and caramelized goodness.
Storage Options
Leftovers? You're in luck. This dish stores beautifully and makes an even better lunch the next day.
For the fridge, transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days. Just make sure to cool it down before sealing to avoid condensation.
If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it up.
To reheat, you can pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or toss it back into a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or water. The latter helps restore that crispiness on the potatoes.
Variations and Substitutions
This skillet is incredibly forgiving — feel free to make it your own. Here are a few ways to mix it up.
Want to lighten things up? Swap in chicken sausage or turkey kielbasa for a leaner option that still packs in flavor.
Looking for more veggies? Add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
For a slightly sweet twist, use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones. They crisp up beautifully and add a natural sweetness that balances the savory sausage.
Craving some cheese? A handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan sprinkled over the top at the end can take it to the next level.
You can also add a splash of chicken broth, white wine, or even a pat of butter at the end for a saucier finish.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. This recipe is a blank canvas for all kinds of flavor combinations — just keep the core method the same, and you can’t go wrong.
PrintSausage And Potatoes Skillet Recipe
This Sausage and Potatoes Skillet recipe is a flavorful one-pan meal packed with smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and savory herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's a quick and hearty dinner option your whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
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1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
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1 medium onion, sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until potatoes are fork-tender.
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Return sausage to the skillet, stir to combine, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
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You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
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Add bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
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Great for meal prep—keeps well in the fridge for 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg






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