Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes—comfort, flavor, and a little cheesy indulgence—this Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. I love how easy it is to throw together on a busy weeknight but it feels hearty and special enough to serve for brunch or a casual weekend dinner. The smoky sausage brings such a great depth of flavor, and when paired with tender yet crispy potatoes and melty cheese, it’s just downright irresistible.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how the cheese blankets everything perfectly, creating that luscious finish everyone loves. You’ll find that this skillet recipe is flexible, quick, and perfect for anyone who appreciates simple ingredients turning into a flavor-packed dish. Plus, it’s a family favorite here—I promise, it’s worth trying whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to deliver the best texture and flavor. I recommend using smoked sausage with a good-quality smoke for that authentic taste, and potatoes that hold their shape well but still cook tender.

• Yellow Potatoes: Thin slices cook evenly and crisp up nicely; I often leave the skin on for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Chicken Flavored Bouillon: Adds a subtle savory boost when boiling potatoes—trust me, it makes a difference!
• Smoked Sausage: Look for a flavorful brand with a natural smoke, which gives the dish its signature taste.
• Yellow Onion: Diced and caramelized, these add sweetness that perfectly balances the smoky sausage.
• Garlic Powder & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together without overpowering.
• Neutral Oil (Avocado or Canola): Great for sautéing without adding extra strong flavors.
• Bacon Grease: This is optional but I love the smoky richness it provides; butter or oil work too.
• All-Purpose Seasoning: I used “The Usual” blend from Fire and Smoke Society—feel free to swap for whatever you love.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated for the best melting texture and tangy flavor punch.

Variations

I love playing around with this recipe depending on what I have in the fridge or my mood. It’s super flexible, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

• Vegetable Boost: I sometimes add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra color and nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: While cheddar is my go-to, smoked gouda or pepper jack gives it an exciting twist.
• Spicy Kick: Adding red pepper flakes or swapping sausage for a spicy chorizo amps up the flavor.
• Diet-Friendly: Use turkey sausage and olive oil instead of bacon grease to lighten it up.

How to Make Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Parboil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and stirring in your chicken bouillon; this little trick gives the potatoes a subtle savory base. Add your thinly sliced yellow potatoes and boil them for about 5 minutes—just enough to soften them without turning mushy. Drain them well and set aside; this step helps the potatoes cook faster and crisp better in the skillet later on.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Caramelize Onions

While the potatoes are boiling, heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced smoked sausage and diced onions, cooking them until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions turn soft and caramelized—this usually takes around 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer this savory mix to a plate and set aside; this layering of flavors is what makes the dish so good!

Step 3: Crisp the Potatoes in Bacon Grease

In the same skillet, melt your bacon grease over medium heat. Then add the drained potatoes and season them evenly with your all-purpose seasoning. Resist the urge to stir a lot—letting the potatoes sit undisturbed for about 20 minutes lets them develop that gorgeous crispy, golden crust. Stir occasionally but gently so you don’t break the potatoes apart.

Step 4: Combine, Cheese, and Melt

Once your potatoes are crisped to perfection, return the sausage and onions to the skillet. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the savory ingredients well. Next, sprinkle the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for a few minutes—this is where the magic happens and everything comes together in gooey, cheesy harmony.

How to Serve Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top mine with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions—they add a fresh pop of color and a mild zing that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce can also take it to the next level.

Side Dishes

This skillet dish works great on its own, but when I want to round out the meal, I pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance all that savory goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch parties, I like serving this skillet straight from the pan at the center of the table—everyone loves digging in family-style! You can also portion it into small ramekins for individual servings or even pile it onto toasted baguette slices for a fun appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I like to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating to keep the texture right. When you reheat, the potatoes stay nice and moist without turning gummy if you follow my reheating tips below.

Freezing

This skillet freezes nicely too! Just pack leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

I usually reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat with a lid on to warm through gently while preserving crispiness. You can also warm it in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make potatoes a bit soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Potatoes Skillet Recipe has become a go-to comfort food in my house for good reason—it’s simple, flavorful, and downright addictive. I love how the ingredients come together with minimal fuss but maximum deliciousness. If you want a recipe that’s both effortless and crowd-pleasing, give this one a try. I’m pretty sure it’ll become one of your favorite quick meals too!

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