Fried Potatoes and Onions with Smoked Sausage
Introduction
Fried potatoes and onions with smoked sausage is a rustic, hearty dish that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor.
The crispy edges of the potatoes, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the smoky richness of the sausage come together to create a comforting one-pan meal.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekend breakfasts, or any time you’re craving a dish that satisfies your hunger and warms your soul.
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served as a standalone meal, a side dish, or a filling for a breakfast hash, this dish captures the essence of simple, home-cooked comfort food.
Ingredients
Potatoes: 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin rounds or small cubes for even cooking.
Onions: 2 medium onions, thinly sliced to caramelize beautifully in the pan.
Smoked Sausage: 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced into rounds or half-moons for a balanced bite.
Cooking Oil: 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter for frying.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the flavors.
Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chives, or shredded cheese for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds or cubes.
Thinly slice the onions and cut the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Fry the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Add the potatoes and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Fry over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Add the Onions: Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the potatoes.
Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the onions are caramelized and mixed with the potatoes.
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, garnish as desired, and serve hot.
Tips
Cooking the Potatoes: For evenly cooked and crispy potatoes, make sure they’re sliced uniformly. You can parboil or microwave them for a few minutes before frying to reduce cooking time and ensure tenderness.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the ingredients in batches if necessary to prevent steaming. Overcrowding the pan can make the potatoes soggy instead of crisp. Use a large skillet or wok for the best results.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist. Spicy smoked sausage like andouille works wonderfully for this variation.
Vegetarian Option: Replace smoked sausage with mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a meat-free version. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
How to Store
Refrigerating Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Freezing for Later: Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly after freezing.
Conclusion
Fried potatoes and onions with smoked sausage is a deliciously simple meal that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. Its crispy, savory, and smoky elements make it a dish that’s hard to resist.
Whether enjoyed as a main dish, a hearty side, or a versatile breakfast option, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
With endless variations and proper storage tips, it’s a meal you’ll love preparing again and again. Dig in and savor the comfort of this timeless classic!