Southern Fried Potatoes & Sausage

 

Southern Fried Potatoes & Sausage delivers every single time. It’s hearty, satisfying, and flexible enough to serve at breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With just a handful of pantry staples, fresh produce, and smoky sausage, you’ll have a flavorful one-pan meal that’s easy on the budget and big on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile for any meal – Pair with eggs for breakfast, a salad for lunch, or cornbread and greens for dinner.

• Flavor-packed – Paprika-seasoned potatoes, caramelized onions, and smoky sausage create layers of flavor.

• Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients.

• One-pan cooking – Everything comes together in a single skillet.

• Customizable – Change the seasoning, swap the sausage, or add extra veggies.

• Crowd-pleaser – Hearty, filling, and full of Southern comfort.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds

• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1/2 bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or bacon grease)

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: garlic powder, cayenne pepper, fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes
Peel and dice potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. For crispier potatoes, soak them in cold water for 10–15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain well and pat dry completely.

2. Cook the Sausage
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium. Add sliced sausage and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

3. Sauté the Potatoes
If the pan is dry, add oil or bacon grease. Spread potatoes in an even layer and let them cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes to form a golden crust.

4. Add Onions & Peppers
Stir gently, then add onion and bell pepper. Season with paprika, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Cook 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender inside and crispy outside, and onions are caramelized.

5. Combine
Return sausage to the skillet. Stir and cook 2–3 minutes more, until everything is heated through and flavors meld.

6. Serve
Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, with hot sauce, ketchup, or sour cream.

Tips & Variations

• Switch the protein – Use andouille for Cajun flavor, chorizo for smokiness, or turkey sausage for a lighter dish.

• Add veggies – Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or kale make great additions.

• Spice it up – Add cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.

• Use leftovers – Pre-cooked potatoes crisp up beautifully.

• Go herby – Fresh rosemary or thyme pairs well.

• Extra crispy tip – Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.

• Breakfast twist – Top with fried or poached eggs.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh for maximum crispiness. Reheat in a skillet to restore texture.

Do I need a cast iron skillet?
Not required, but cast iron holds heat better and creates the best potato crust.