Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet

Name: Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 16 oz. smoked sausage (sliced); 1 ½ cups red onion ((1 medium); sliced); 3 lbs russet potatoes ((5 potatoes); ½" cubed); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 cup cheddar cheese (grated); ½ tsp salt (+/-, to taste); ½ tsp pepper (+/-, to taste)

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Bring comfort to your table with Smoked Sausage and Potatoes baked in a skillet for crispy edges, tender centers, and melty cheddar on top. This easy one-pan dinner is hearty, flavorful, and ready in just an hour.

Sausage and potatoes in a skillet topped with cheese.

The rich, smoky flavor of sausage paired with golden roasted potatoes makes this sausage and potato recipe a fast favorite in my kitchen. With red onion, paprika, and thyme adding depth, everything roasts together in a cast-iron skillet for irresistible flavor. Finished with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a one-pan meal that’s simple enough for weeknights yet hearty enough for company.

If you enjoyed this one-pan meal, check out some other favorites like one pot beef stroganoff and Mexican chicken skillet.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Variations
How to Make Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet
Expert Tips
Serving Suggestions
Recipe FAQs
More Delicious Sausage Recipes
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy One-Pan Meal: This smoked sausage and potatoes skillet comes together in just one pan, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
Big Flavor with Simple Ingredients: Smoked sausage, potatoes, and spices create a hearty meal without a long ingredient list.
Family Friendly: The cheesy topping and comforting flavors make this sausage and potatoes recipe a hit with both kids and adults. Another family-friendly recipe is my skillet bacon cheeseburger casserole.
Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main course or alongside other dishes, this potato and sausage recipe is perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Smoked Sausage: Choose a fully cooked smoked sausage. Sliced into rounds, it browns well and infuses flavor throughout this smoked sausage and potatoes recipe.
Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture makes them ideal for roasting, giving fluffy centers with crispy edges. Cut into even cubes so they cook through evenly.
Red Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth as it roasts, balancing the richness of the sausage and potatoes in this dish.
Paprika & Thyme: Paprika brings color and a mild smoky note, while thyme adds subtle earthiness. These simple seasonings highlight the flavor in this smoked sausage with potatoes recipe.
Cheddar Cheese: A final layer of cheddar melts into gooey perfection, adding comfort and richness to the dish. For the best melt, grate the cheese fresh.

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.

Variations

Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a colorful, nutrient-packed version that adds extra flavor and texture.
Turkey or Chicken Sausage: Substitute smoked sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter, leaner version without sacrificing flavor.
Breakfast Style: Add cooked, crumbled bacon and top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch twist. For a similar dish, try my sweet potato hash recipe.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapenos or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the sausage and potatoes before roasting for a zesty twist.

How to Make Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet

Making this smoked sausage and potato recipe is easy. Start by preheating the oven to 400°F and having a cast-iron skillet ready to use.

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the smoked sausage, cubed potatoes, sliced red onion, olive oil, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until evenly coated.

Sausage and potatoes mixture added to the skillet to cook.

Step 2: Roast the Skillet. Spread the mixture in the skillet and bake for about 45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and golden.

Cheese sprinkled over the top of the potatoes and sausage.

Step 3: Add the Cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top and return to the oven for a few minutes until melted and bubbly. Serve warm with some tasty garlic bread.

Expert Tips

Even Cooking: Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes so they roast evenly and don’t end up mushy.
Skillet Choice: Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet for the best crisping and even heat distribution, but any oven-safe skillet will work.
Cheese Finish: Add the cheddar only at the end of baking to prevent it from overcooking or becoming greasy.
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain crispy edges rather than microwaving.

A spoon lifting up a portion of sausage and potatoes from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this sausage and potato skillet for a weeknight dinner or hearty family lunch, paired with a fresh green salad or honey glazed carrots for a balanced meal.
Make it a crowd-pleaser at brunch or breakfast gatherings by topping with fried eggs and serving alongside my spinach frittata and sweet cherry rolls.
Bring it to potlucks or holiday meals as a comforting side; it pairs well with bacon green bean casserole, and buttery dinner rolls to round out the plate.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this smoked sausage and potato recipe?

Yes! Chicken, turkey, or even spicy sausage can be used instead of traditional smoked sausage. Just make sure they are fully cooked before roasting.

Can I freeze this smoked sausage and potato dish?

Yes, you can freeze it after cooking. Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer portions to airtight freezer-safe containers or bags.

What's the best way to reheat this sausage and potato dish?

Reheat in the oven for best results, which helps maintain crispy potatoes and prevents them from becoming mushy. Return it to the skillet or other baking tray and heat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.