Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans

Introduction

Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans is the epitome of a comforting, no-fuss meal that delivers on both flavor and convenience. The smoky, savory sausage complements the tender potatoes and crisp green beans, creating a delicious and satisfying one-pan dinner that requires minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, wholesome meal with little prep time.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily throw this dish together, and the result is a well-balanced meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The smoky richness of the sausage infuses the potatoes and green beans, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family or preparing meals in advance for the week, this recipe is both easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

Quick, delicious, and satisfying, Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans is a weeknight favorite that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Family meals
  • Comfort food lovers
  • One-pan meals
  • Hearty, filling dinners

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans will become your new favorite dish:

  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet or sheet pan, making clean-up a breeze.
  • Hearty and Satisfying: The smoked sausage provides a rich, smoky flavor, while the potatoes and green beans offer a delicious balance of texture and freshness.
  • Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a complete meal on the table in under 45 minutes.
  • Customizable: Feel free to adjust the vegetables or seasoning to suit your preferences.
  • Family-Friendly: This meal is perfect for families, as it’s easy to make and appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 18g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans:

For the Dish

  • 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for extra moisture)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Smoked Sausage: The star of the dish, smoked sausage adds a bold, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes and green beans.
  • Potatoes: Potatoes are a hearty, filling base for this dish, and their starchy texture helps absorb all the delicious flavors.
  • Green Beans: Whether fresh or frozen, green beans add a crisp, fresh element to balance the richness of the sausage and potatoes.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth of flavor, complementing the sausage perfectly.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and a savory richness to the dish, though it’s optional if you prefer a drier texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans:

Cook the Sausage and Potatoes

  1. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the diced potatoes. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn golden brown. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking. Season the potatoes with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add the Green Beans

  1. Add the Green Beans: Add the green beans to the skillet with the potatoes. Stir everything together to combine, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the green beans are tender and the potatoes are fully cooked. If the pan becomes too dry, add a bit more broth or water to keep everything moist.

Combine and Finish

  1. Return the Sausage to the Skillet: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sausage is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
  2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve: Once everything is cooked and well combined, serve immediately while hot.

How to Serve

Here are some serving ideas for your Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans:

  • With a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
  • With Cornbread: Serve alongside some warm cornbread for a comforting, Southern-inspired meal.
  • Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
  • As a Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to help you make your Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans perfect:

  • Use a Nonstick Skillet: A nonstick skillet helps prevent the sausage from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
  • Cut Potatoes Evenly: Try to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re using a smaller skillet, cook the potatoes and sausage in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust the Heat: If you like a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.

Recipe Variations

Try these fun variations of Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans:

  • Smoked Sausage with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
  • Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. Add kale for extra greens and nutrients. Season with garlic, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet-savory flavor.
  • Cajun Smoked Sausage with Roasted Red Potatoes and Bell Peppers
  • Toss the potatoes and green beans with Cajun seasoning. Add roasted bell peppers and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty touch.
  • Smoked Sausage with Fingerling Potatoes and Spinach
  • Use fingerling potatoes for a more refined look. Add spinach towards the end of cooking for a mild, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sausage.
  • Smoked Sausage with Baby Potatoes and Caramelized Onions
  • Caramelize onions before adding them to the dish for a deep, sweet flavor. Baby potatoes provide a tender, buttery texture to complement the sausage.
  • Italian Smoked Sausage with Potatoes, Green Beans, and Cherry Tomatoes
  • Add cherry tomatoes to the mix for a burst of acidity. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a hearty, Mediterranean-inspired twist.
  • Smoked Sausage with Yukon Gold Potatoes and Asparagus
  • Yukon Gold potatoes add creaminess, while asparagus offers a fresh and slightly nutty flavor. Top with lemon zest and parsley for brightness.
  • Spicy Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Peas
  • For a spicy version, use a hot smoked sausage variety. Add frozen peas for a quick vegetable option that balances the heat.
  • Smoked Sausage with Red Potatoes, Green Beans, and Mushrooms
  • Sauté sliced mushrooms with the sausage for an earthy flavor. The red potatoes add a firmer texture, and the green beans maintain their crispness for a well-balanced dish.
  • Smoked Sausage with Potatoes, Green Beans, and Corn
  • Add fresh or frozen corn kernels for a touch of sweetness. This variation is great for a more summery take on the dish, with a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
  • Smoked Sausage with Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans, and Broccoli
  • Roasting both the potatoes and broccoli adds depth of flavor. Toss the green beans in near the end to maintain their crunch while keeping the dish well-rounded.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen if you want to save some for later. Allow the cooked sausage, potatoes, and green beans to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Special Equipment

Here’s some special equipment that will help you prepare your Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans:

  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A wide skillet ensures everything cooks evenly and you have enough room for all the ingredients.
  • Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to dice the potatoes and slice the sausage.
  • Spatula: A spatula is great for flipping the sausage and stirring the ingredients in the skillet.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use turkey sausage instead of smoked sausage?
    Yes, turkey sausage can be used for a lighter version of the dish. It will still provide great flavor but be slightly less rich.
  2. Can I use frozen green beans?
    Yes, frozen green beans will work just fine in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking, or add them directly to the skillet if frozen.
  3. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even Brussels sprouts for added flavor and nutrition.
  4. How do I make this dish spicier?
    Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage for a bit of heat.
  5. Can I make this dish in the oven?
    Yes, you can bake the sausage, potatoes, and green beans on a sheet pan at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for an oven-baked version of this dish.

Conclusion

Smoked Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. The smoky sausage pairs perfectly with tender potatoes and crisp green beans, creating a satisfying meal that’s both filling and delicious.

Ideal for busy nights or when you want a low-effort, family-friendly dish, this one-pan recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. It’s easy to prepare and guarantees a delicious dinner that everyone will enjoy. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful!

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