Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

The Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy potatoes, flavorful smoked sausage, and gooey cheddar cheese for a hearty meal. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a lazy breakfast, making it versatile for any occasion. The combination of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds, while its simple preparation ensures you can whip it up quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients, it offers great flavor without breaking the bank.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—it’s delicious at any time of day!
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is a bonus with this skillet meal. Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices with melty cheese elevates the taste to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Cooking this delicious skillet meal requires minimal tools, making it easy to prepare in any kitchen.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes quickly and efficiently before frying them.
• Skillet: The heart of this recipe, allowing you to cook everything in one place for added flavor.
• Cutting board and knife: Necessary for prepping your ingredients safely and efficiently, ensuring uniform cooking.

Ingredients

A quick and budget-friendly skillet meal with crispy potatoes, smoked sausage, onions and melty cheddar cheese – perfect for weeknights or even breakfast!

For the Potatoes

• 2 lbs Yellow Potatoes, sliced into thin rounds (skin-on or peeled, your choice)
• 1 tbsp Chicken Flavored Bouillon

For the Sausage

• 14 oz Package of Smoked Sausage, sliced
• 1 Yellow Onion, diced

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Neutral Oil, like avocado or canola
• 2 tbsp turkey olive oil (or oil or butter)
• 1 tbsp All Purpose Seasoning (I used The Usual from Fire and Smoke Society)

For Topping

• 4 oz Freshly Grated Sharp Cheddar (or any cheese you like)

How to Make Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Stir in the chicken bouillon.
3. Add the sliced potatoes and boil for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add the sliced sausage and diced onion to the skillet.
3. Cook until the sausage is browned and onions are soft and caramelized (about 6–8 minutes).
4. Transfer everything to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Crispy Potato Perfection

1. In the same skillet, melt the turkey olive oil.
2. Add the drained potatoes and season with your favorite all-purpose seasoning blend.
3. Let them cook for about 20 minutes while stirring occasionally to achieve a golden crust.

Step 4: Combine & Melt Cheese

1. Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, return the sausage and onions to the skillet.
2. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
3. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar over the top.
4. Cover with a lid for a few minutes until cheese is melted.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

This Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are plenty of creative options to enhance your meal experience.

Breakfast Bowl

• Serve the skillet with a fried or poached egg on top for a hearty breakfast option.

Fresh Salad

• Pair the skillet with a light green salad tossed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and sausage.

Toast or Breads

• Offer slices of crusty bread or warm rolls on the side to soak up any leftover cheesy goodness.

Avocado Slices

• Add fresh avocado slices on top for creaminess and extra nutrition.

Hot Sauce Drizzle

• A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavors and add a spicy kick.

Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with pickled cucumbers or jalapeños for a tangy contrast that complements the dish.

How to Perfect Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

To make your Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve the best texture and flavor every time you cook this dish.

• Use a high-quality sausage: Choosing a flavorful smoked sausage will greatly enhance the overall taste of your skillet meal.
• Pre-cook potatoes: Boiling the potatoes before frying helps them become tender while achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
• Season generously: Don’t skip on seasoning. Use salt, pepper, and your favorite spices to elevate the flavors throughout the dish.
• Cover while melting cheese: Covering the skillet while melting cheese ensures it gets perfectly gooey and melts evenly over all ingredients.
• Adjust cooking times: Depending on your stove and skillet, cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on each ingredient to prevent overcooking.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for varied flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Completing your meal with delightful side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving your Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch, making it a nutritious companion to your skillet meal.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy potatoes.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins offer sweetness that balances out savory flavors in the skillet.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up cheesy remnants left on your plate.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and natural sweetness, making it an ideal complement to this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Not Pre-cooking the Potatoes: Boiling the potatoes beforehand ensures they are tender and cook evenly. Skipping this step can lead to undercooked potatoes.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: If you add too many ingredients at once, the food will steam rather than brown. Cook in batches if necessary for better results.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your dish properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings as you cook.
• Using the Wrong Cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Choose a cheese like sharp cheddar for optimal melting and flavor, or select a cheese that suits your taste.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Cooking at too high a heat can burn your ingredients. Be patient and cook over medium heat to achieve perfectly crispy potatoes and caramelized onions.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The skillet meal can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring often until heated throughout, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for smoked sausage in the Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet?

You can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option that still offers great flavor.

Can I add vegetables to my Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli would be delicious additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

How do I customize my Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet?

Feel free to change the type of cheese or seasoning blend based on your preferences. You can also switch up the protein for variety!

How long does it take to make Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.

Is this Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet is not just quick but also versatile, appealing to both breakfast lovers and dinner seekers alike. With options for customization, you can make this dish uniquely yours. So why not give it a try? Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients!