If you have been hunting for the perfect dish to warm your soul and satisfy every craving at once, look no further than the Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe. This incredible skillet combines tender, golden Yukon gold potatoes with savory pork sausage, vibrant red bell pepper, and fragrant garlic to create a meal that is both hearty and bursting with flavor. Each bite brings a perfect balance of textures and spices, while a splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley add brightness and freshness that elevate this humble favorite into something truly unforgettable. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend brunch, this recipe always hits the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe lies in how simple and accessible the ingredients are, yet each plays a vital role in layering flavors, textures, and a bit of color onto your plate. These essentials come together to create a dish that feels both familiar and exciting.
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes: The perfect blend of creaminess and flavor to make your skillet irresistibly tender yet crispy.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of every ingredient without overpowering.
- 1 pound uncooked pork sausage: Brings savory spice and rich, meaty goodness that the dish needs for depth.
- 1 medium red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch that balances the heartiness perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic: Infuses the skillet with warm, aromatic flavor that ties everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Compliments the sausage with a subtle, peppery punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a little kick to keep things spicy and exciting.
- 1 medium lemon: Juice brightens the dish, cutting through richness with a refreshing zing.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves: Adds a fresh, herbal note that livens up every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly sautéing all the ingredients to golden perfection.
How to Make Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe
Step 1: Parboil the Potatoes
Start by placing the Yukon gold potatoes in a large saucepan and covering them with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of kosher salt and bring this to a boil over high heat. Let the potatoes cook just until they become fork-tender, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Parboiling helps speed up the cooking process later and ensures the potatoes are soft inside while allowing that coveted crispy crust to develop once fried.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the potatoes drain, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the uncooked pork sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it cook until beautifully browned and fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. This process builds intense flavor from the Maillard reaction, and browning in a dry pan maximizes that depth. Once done, transfer the sausage onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Crisp the Potatoes
Lower your skillet’s heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in those nicely drained Yukon gold potatoes, spreading them out evenly in the pan. The secret to unforgettable skillet potatoes is letting them cook undisturbed so a golden, crispy crust can form on one side—about 5 minutes should do the trick. Resist the temptation to stir too often or too soon to get that perfect crunch.
Step 4: Add the Veggies and Seasonings
Once the potatoes have that gorgeous golden layer, stir in your diced red bell pepper, minced garlic, the rest of your kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté everything together gently, stirring occasionally until the potatoes soften fully and the peppers turn tender, roughly 3 to 4 minutes. This is where all the flavors start to mingle beautifully, creating a satisfying balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes.
Step 5: Return the Sausage and Finish
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and let it warm through for about 2 minutes. Now the final flourish: remove the skillet from heat, then stir in bright fresh lemon juice and fragrant parsley. This last step wakes up the dish, cutting through the richness and adding a lively freshness that you didn’t know you needed but won’t want to live without.
How to Serve Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple but impactful by garnishing with a bit more fresh parsley or chives for that inviting pop of green. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a few scattered chili flakes can also amp up the visual appeal and give an extra subtle spice if you like things a little fiery.
Side Dishes
Because this skillet is such a hearty, all-in-one dish, pair it with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. A crusty bread or warm naan also complements the skillet beautifully by soaking up the delicious juices left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe family-style, right in your skillet for a rustic but wow-worthy presentation. For a brunch twist, top with a sunny-side-up egg or avocado slices. You can even use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or crispy tortilla wraps for a clever hand-held meal everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The skillet keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or quick lunches. Just make sure to cool the food completely before sealing the container to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Freezing is a great way to enjoy this comfort dish whenever the craving strikes without extra cooking.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to help restore some of the potatoes’ crispiness, adding a splash of oil if necessary. Alternatively, microwave reheating works well for convenience, though the texture won’t be quite as crispy. Either method will bring back the comforting flavors you love.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While pork sausage delivers a classic flavor, you can substitute with chicken, turkey, or even a spicy chorizo to customize the spice level and flavor profile to your liking.
Are Yukon gold potatoes necessary?
Yukon golds are ideal due to their creamy texture and great ability to crisp up, but you can swap in red potatoes or russets if that’s what you have handy. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on the variety.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your sausage does not contain any hidden gluten fillers or additives.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon? Can I substitute?
If fresh lemon is unavailable, a small splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can brighten the dish similarly. Just be careful with the amount to avoid overpowering the flavors.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but it’s easily adjustable. Omit or reduce the flakes for a milder version, or add extra for those who love heat.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe is a complete flavor hug delivered in a skillet. It’s straightforward, requires no fancy ingredients, and brings warmth and satisfaction like few dishes can. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—once you try it, it might just become your new go-to comfort food too!
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Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Fried Potatoes and Sausage Skillet is the ultimate comfort dish combining tender Yukon gold potatoes, savory pork sausage, and vibrant red bell peppers, all cooked to golden perfection in a single skillet. Enhanced with garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh lemon juice, and parsley, this hearty meal brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in just 30 minutes – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Sausage
- 1 pound uncooked pork sausage
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 medium lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the Yukon gold potatoes in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water, about 1 inch above the potatoes. Add 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook just until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 3 to 4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the uncooked pork sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 10 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Fry the Potatoes: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the drained potatoes and spread them evenly across the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to develop a golden crust.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, minced garlic, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and peppers are tender, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and gently stir to combine. Heat through for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley leaves to brighten the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Yukon gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture and flavor, but russet potatoes can be substituted if necessary.
- Be careful not to overcook the potatoes during boiling; they should be just fork-tender to hold up during frying.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Feel free to garnish with additional fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
- This skillet meal pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
