Smothered potatoes and sausage is a classic comfort food that brings rich, hearty flavors to the table. This dish features tender potatoes and savory sausage, slow-cooked together with onions and seasonings to create a satisfying meal.
What makes this recipe stand out is its quick preparation time, making it a great option for busy weeknights. In half an hour, you’ll have a hearty, flavor-packed meal on the table—no long prep or cooking required.
Rooted in Southern cuisine, smothered potatoes have long been a staple in home cooking. While traditional versions often include pork, this recipe allows for customization with chicken, turkey, or beef sausage, making it a versatile and delicious meal for any preference.
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A One-Pan Comfort Dish for Any Occasion
This one-pan meal is the perfect balance of flavor and convenience, making it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. With just a single skillet, you can create a dish that is hearty, satisfying, and packed with bold Southern flavors.
The key to this dish is smothering, a cooking technique that allows the potatoes to absorb the rich flavors of the sausage, onions, and seasonings. As the ingredients cook together, the potatoes become tender, the sausage infuses the dish with savory depth, and the sauce thickens into a rich coating.
This recipe can be easily customized with chicken, turkey, or beef sausage, making it a healthier alternative to traditional pork-based versions. Whether you prefer a smoky, spicy, or mild sausage, this dish adapts to your taste while keeping its classic Southern appeal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 12 ounces chicken or turkey sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the sliced sausage for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until it develops a golden-brown color. Transfer it to a plate and set aside.
- Use the same skillet to heat the remaining tablespoon of butter or oil. Toss in the onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Toss in the sliced potatoes and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using), ensuring they’re evenly coated with the seasonings. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the seasoning.
- Add the broth to the skillet, then return the cooked sausage to the pan. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the flavors meld together, and cover with a lid.
- Lower the heat and let it gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring now and then, until the potatoes are soft and the broth has thickened into a rich, flavorful sauce.
- If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of broth or water and stir.
- Before serving, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Side Dishes Suggestions
Smothered Green Beans – Slow-cooked with onions and seasonings, these tender green beans pair well with the rich flavors of smothered potatoes and sausage.
Southern Cornbread – A slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth from the potatoes.
Steamed Rice – A simple bowl of white or brown rice balances the heartiness of the dish and helps absorb the sauce.
Simple Green Salad – A crisp salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast to the meal.
Key Tips for the Best Smothered Potatoes
Avoiding Soggy Potatoes
- For the best texture, opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, as they hold their shape well while becoming perfectly tender. Yukon Gold stays creamy, while Russet absorbs flavors well.
- Slice potatoes into 1/4-inch rounds for even cooking. Too thin makes them mushy, too thick takes longer to cook.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan. Stir occasionally to allow even heat distribution.
Getting the Perfect Smothering Consistency
- Keep the heat on medium-low once the broth is added to prevent burning while allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but avoid overmixing, which can break the potatoes apart.
- If the mixture looks dry before the potatoes are fully tender, add a splash of broth and stir gently.
Customizing the Recipe
- Swap chicken, turkey, or beef sausage for different flavors while keeping the dish pork-free.
- Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or carrots to enhance texture and nutrition.
- For a smoky twist, use fire-roasted tomatoes or smoked paprika to deepen the flavor.
Conclusion
Smothered potatoes and sausage is a quick, comforting, and flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. With tender potatoes, savory sausage, and rich seasonings, it delivers a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. The one-pan cooking method makes it simple and convenient, while the smothering technique enhances the texture and taste.
This recipe is easily customizable, allowing you to experiment with different sausages, vegetables, and seasonings to suit your choices. If you love classic Southern comfort food, be sure to check out Southern-Style Smothered Potatoes for a traditional take on this dish.
We’d love to see your delicious creations! Tag us on Instagram when you make this dish, and share your twist on this Southern-inspired classic.
Easy Smothered Potatoes & Sausage in 30 Mins
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes Peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 12 ounces Chicken or turkey sausage Sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium Onion Thinly sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1/2 cup Bell peppers Diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional for heat
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil or butter For cooking
- 3/4 cup Chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and sauté onions for 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add potatoes and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in broth and return sausage to the skillet. Stir, cover, and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and the broth has thickened.
- If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of broth and stir gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
People Also Ask
1. What kind of potatoes work best for smothered potatoes?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work best. Yukon Gold stays creamy, while Russet absorbs flavors well and becomes soft.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, keep it fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back its moisture and flavor.
3. What’s the best sausage to use?
Chicken, turkey, or beef sausage works well. Choose a leaner sausage to avoid excess grease while keeping the dish flavorful.
4. Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes, a sprinkle of cheddar or parmesan adds richness. For a creamy texture, stir in cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if using gluten-free sausage and broth. Always check labels for hidden gluten in seasoning blends or processed meats.
6. Can I make this recipe without broth?
Yes, you can use water instead, but broth adds flavor. A mix of water and milk can create a slightly creamy texture if preferred.
7. What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, carrots, or zucchini work well. Slice firmer veggies thinly so they cook evenly with the potatoes.