Fried potatoes and onions are a classic comfort food that combines crispy golden potatoes, savory sausage, and sweet, caramelized onions. But when you add smoked sausage to the mix, it takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. The smoky flavor of the sausage blends perfectly with the crispy potatoes and the sweetness of the onions, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast side or a comforting dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Why You'll Love This Dish
This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The hearty potatoes, savory sausage, and sweet onions cook together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The result is a dish that is crispy, tender, and absolutely irresistible. Plus, the seasoning adds just the right amount of kick, making this meal a hit for everyone. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish delivers comfort in every bite.
Ingredients (and Their Roles)
1½ pounds russet potatoes, diced into 1/2" cubes
The russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they become crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, creating the perfect texture for frying.1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
The smoked sausage adds a rich, smoky flavor that infuses the potatoes and onions, giving the dish a savory depth. The sausage also provides protein, making this a complete meal.2 Tbsp vegetable oil
The oil is essential for frying the potatoes and sausage, ensuring a crispy golden exterior. You can substitute with olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile.1 medium onion, sliced
Onions bring a natural sweetness to the dish, and when cooked slowly, they become beautifully caramelized, adding a rich depth to the flavors.Salt and pepper to taste
These are your basic seasonings, but they also help enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients.½ tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a subtle but essential aromatic flavor to balance the savory elements of the sausage and potatoes.½ tsp paprika
Paprika gives the dish a mild heat and a pop of color, along with a touch of smoky flavor to complement the sausage.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the vegetable oil. This oil will serve as the base for frying and help get the potatoes nice and crispy.Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and tender on the inside. Be sure to stir to prevent burning and ensure even crisping. This is the base of your crispy texture, so don’t rush this step!Add the Sausage
Next, toss in the smoked sausage slices. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown slightly and release its rich, smoky flavor. The sausage will infuse the potatoes with its savory goodness during this time.Caramelize the Onions
Now, add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to soften and caramelize. The sweetness of the onions will complement the smoky sausage and crispy potatoes perfectly.Season to Perfection
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to ensure that everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together, and the potatoes to crisp up further.Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is golden brown and crispy to your liking, remove from heat and serve immediately. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and sweet onions is truly unbeatable.
Pro Tips for Perfecting This Dish
- Cut potatoes evenly: Ensure your potato cubes are of similar size to allow for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: If your skillet isn’t large enough, consider cooking the potatoes in batches to maintain crispiness.
- Use high-quality sausage: The flavor of the smoked sausage is the star of this dish, so choose one that you love!
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving and feel free to add more garlic powder or paprika if you prefer more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This fried potatoes and onions dish can stand alone as a satisfying main course, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For breakfast, this dish is perfect with a fried egg on top, or alongside crispy bacon for an indulgent morning meal. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Fried potatoes and onions with smoked sausage is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients to create a dish that's both hearty and delicious. The combination of crispy potatoes, smoky sausage, and caramelized onions is a winner every time. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. This dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal—whether you’re cooking for your family or enjoying a cozy dinner for one. Give it a try, and watch it become a favorite at your table!