Go Back
- 1 lb smoked sausage (options: andouille or kielbasa) - 4 medium potatoes (diced into small cubes) - 1 bell pepper (diced - any color) - 1 small onion (finely chopped) - 3 cloves garlic (minced) - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and black pepper to taste - Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, green onions, and fresh parsley for garnish The heart of any great dish lies in its ingredients. For this Cajun sausage potato skillet, we start with 1 pound of smoked sausage. I love using andouille for its bold flavor, but kielbasa works well too. Next, we need 4 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly and blend well with other flavors. Choose a bell pepper in any color you like. It adds a nice crunch and color. Don't forget the aromatics! A small onion, finely chopped, brings a sweet depth. Three cloves of minced garlic are a must for that savory kick. I also use 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. It adds just the right amount of spice. For cooking, 2 tablespoons of olive oil are perfect for sautéing. You’ll want to season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you like some heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. For garnish, chopped green onions and fresh parsley add a beautiful touch right before serving. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful family meal that everyone will enjoy. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. First, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers. 2. Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Sauté for about five minutes. Look for golden brown edges. This step brings out the great flavor of the sausage. 1. Next, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Cook for another four to five minutes. You want them to soften and become fragrant. 2. Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, too. Sauté for one minute. This helps the garlic release its wonderful aroma. 1. Now, raise the heat to medium-high. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Mix everything well. 2. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally. The potatoes should become tender and easy to pierce with a fork. 3. After the potatoes are soft, remove the lid. Cook for an extra two to three minutes. This helps them get crispy and golden brown. 4. Taste the dish and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. 5. Finally, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Timing matters when cooking. Sauté the sausage for about 5 minutes until it’s golden. This step boosts the sausage flavor. After that, add the onion and bell pepper. Cook them for around 4-5 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. For crispy potatoes, start by covering the skillet. Let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. After they soften, remove the lid and increase the heat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will give them a nice, crispy finish. Adjusting spice levels is easy. If you like it hot, add more cayenne pepper. For a milder dish, skip the cayenne. You can also swap the Cajun seasoning for a milder blend if needed. Feel free to use different sausages. Andouille adds a smoky flavor, while kielbasa is milder. You can even use turkey sausage for a lighter option. For veggies, try adding zucchini or mushrooms for more texture. To present your dish, serve it right in the skillet. It gives a rustic look that feels homey. If you want a pop of color, transfer it to a bright platter. Pair your skillet meal with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A nice cold drink, like iced tea, complements the flavors well. Enjoying the meal together makes it even more special. Pro Tips Choose the Right Sausage: Opt for andouille sausage for a spicier kick or kielbasa for a milder flavor. Each brings a unique taste to the dish. Cut Potatoes Evenly: Ensure that the potato cubes are of uniform size to guarantee even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish. Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with the recommended amount, and increase if you enjoy more heat. Garnish Generously: Don't skip on the green onions and parsley! They add freshness and a pop of color that enhances the dish visually and flavor-wise. {{image_4}} You can switch up the sausage to make this dish your own. Here are some great options: - Andouille sausage: This adds a nice smoky flavor. - Kielbasa: A milder choice with a juicy bite. - Chicken or turkey sausage: These are leaner and still very tasty. If you want to go meatless, try these substitutes: - Plant-based sausage: Look for options made from soy or pea protein. - Chickpeas: They add protein and a nice texture. - Tofu: Firm tofu works well when seasoned and sautéed. Adding more veggies can boost flavor and nutrition. Here are some great choices: - Zucchini: Slice it thin for quick cooking. - Mushrooms: They add a savory depth. - Spinach: Toss it in at the end for vibrant color. Experiment with seasonings for a twist: - Italian herbs: Swap Cajun seasoning for oregano and basil. - Garlic powder: Adds more garlic flavor without fresh cloves. - Lemon zest: Brightens up the dish with a fresh taste. If you want to try different cooking methods, here are a couple of ideas: - Oven-baked version: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Mix everything in a large baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring once. This gives a nice crispness to the potatoes. - Instant Pot: Use the sauté function for the sausage and veggies. Add potatoes and a cup of broth. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Quick-release for perfectly cooked potatoes. - Air fryer: Sauté the sausage and veggies first. Transfer to the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 10-15 minutes for crispy potatoes. These variations let you customize your Cajun sausage potato skillet to suit your taste and needs! To store your Cajun sausage potato skillet, follow these steps: - Let the dish cool to room temperature. - Place it in an airtight container. - Store it in the fridge. This meal lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Reheating your leftovers can bring back the delicious flavors. Freezing this dish is easy and can save it for later. Here’s how: - Allow the skillet to cool completely. - Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bags. - Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, follow these steps for reheating: - Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. - Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. - Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This way, your Cajun sausage potato skillet stays tasty! Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This dish tastes great even after a day or two. What sides pair well with Cajun Sausage Potato Skillet? This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Crusty bread - Fresh green salad - Steamed vegetables - Coleslaw Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, Cajun Sausage Potato Skillet is gluten-free. Just check the sausage label to ensure no gluten ingredients. Tips for making it dairy-free or low-carb To make it dairy-free, you don’t need any dairy products. For a low-carb version, use cauliflower instead of potatoes. This swap keeps it tasty and healthy. What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning? If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, try using smoked paprika, chili powder, or a mix of garlic powder and black pepper. These will give a nice flavor. How to make this recipe spicier or milder? To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce. For a milder taste, reduce the cayenne and use less Cajun seasoning. Adjust to your liking! In this blog post, we explored how to make a Cajun sausage potato skillet. We covered the key ingredients, from smoked sausage to potatoes and spices. The step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow, and the tips enhanced the dish's flavor. Variations offered new ideas for proteins and vegetables. Lastly, we discussed storage and common questions to ensure your meal stays fresh. Now, you have the tools to cook a delicious dish that can impress anyone. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing this tasty meal with friends and family.

Cajun Sausage Potato Skillet

A flavorful and hearty skillet dish featuring smoked sausage, potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, seasoned with Cajun spices.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (andouille or kielbasa)
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
  • 1 whole bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 2 paprika
  • 1 4 cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 2 whole green onions, chopped
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  • Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until the sausage is golden brown on the edges.
  • Incorporate the chopped onion and bell peppers into the skillet, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper, along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté everything together for about 1 minute.
  • Raise the heat to medium-high, then add the diced potatoes. Mix thoroughly to ensure that everything is well combined.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and let the potatoes cook for roughly 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  • Once the potatoes are cooked through, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the potatoes to crisp up.
  • Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve in the skillet for a rustic look or on a colorful platter. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Keyword Cajun, easy, potatoes, sausage, skillet