Smoky Sausage & Crispy Potato Skillet with Peppers & Onions

This skillet dinner is pure comfort in a pan: tender-crisp Yukon Gold potatoes with golden edges, juicy smoked sausage with caramelized crusts, and tender onions and bell peppers that soak up all the smoky, herby seasonings. It’s rustic, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—serve it straight from the pan with crusty bread or a simple green salad for the ultimate cozy meal.

Servings: 4 generous portions
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving: ~600–650 kcal, ~20–25g protein (varies by sausage type and portions)

Ingredients

Main ingredients:

• 14 oz (400 g) smoked sausage (kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite variety), sliced into ¼–½ inch rounds
• 1½ lbs (about 680 g) baby Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into ¾–1 inch chunks (no need to peel)
• 1 large yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 large red bell pepper (or mix of colors), cored and sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste—be generous)
• Optional: ¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a gentle kick)

For finishing:

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Par-cook the potatoes
   Place cubed potatoes in a pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook 8–10 minutes until just fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels (this step removes excess moisture for maximum crispiness).
2. Brown the sausage
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage in a single layer. Cook 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until deeply browned and caramelized on both sides. Remove to a plate (leave the flavorful fat in the pan).
3. Crisp the potatoes
   In the same skillet (add a little more oil if dry), add the par-cooked potatoes cut-side down where possible. Cook undisturbed 4–5 minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir and continue cooking 8–10 minutes total, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are crispy and golden all over. Season lightly with salt and pepper during this step.
4. Sauté the veggies & season
   Push potatoes to one side of the pan. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the empty side, then add sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté 4–6 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize at the edges.
   Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over everything. Toss to coat evenly and let the spices bloom for 1 minute.
5. Combine & finish
   Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together 2–3 minutes until heated through and flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning—more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness if desired.
   Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley.
6. Serve
   Serve hot straight from the skillet—family-style or plated. Pair with crusty bread, a dollop of sour cream, or a simple green salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Skillet

• Crispy potatoes — Drying them well after par-boiling is key; don’t skip patting dry.
• Sausage choice — Smoked varieties (kielbasa, andouille) add the most flavor, but chicken or turkey sausage works for a lighter version.
• One-pan magic — Use a large 12–14 inch skillet so nothing steams—instead, it browns.
• Make-ahead — Par-cook potatoes and slice everything earlier; cook fresh for best texture.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy — Use spicy smoked sausage or double the red pepper flakes.
• Veggie boost — Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach in the last few minutes.
• Cheesy finish — Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack over the top in the last 2 minutes to melt.
• Breakfast twist — Top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch skillet.

This pan-roasted sausage & potatoes skillet is smoky, crispy, savory, and packed with bold flavor—the kind of one-pan dinner you’ll crave again and again. It’s cozy, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week! Give it a try and let me know your favorite sausage variety or add-in in the comments. 🌭🥔🔥