This delicious recipe for Fried Potatoes, Onions, and Smoked Polish Sausage is the perfect comfort food. Combining crispy potatoes, flavorful smoked sausage, and sautéed onions with bell peppers creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a versatile meal that works as a filling breakfast, lunch, or dinner option and pairs beautifully with a side of eggs, a fresh green salad, or even as a main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple recipe calls for easy-to-find ingredients that come together for an irresistible flavor combination:

• 1½ pounds of Russet Potatoes – Diced into ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
• 1 Pound Smoked Sausage – Sliced into rounds; Polish sausage adds a smoky, rich flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil – For sautéing.
• ½ Teaspoon Seasoned Salt – To enhance the flavors.
• ½ Teaspoon Italian Seasoning – Adds an aromatic touch to the potatoes.
• ½ Large Red Bell Pepper – Sliced or diced for a sweet, vibrant flavor.
• ½ Large Green Bell Pepper – Adds color and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness.
• 1 Small Onion – Diced; any type of onion will work, but yellow onions are great for sautéing.
• Black Pepper – To taste.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Optional, for a savory garnish.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Onion

1. Heat the Pan: Start by warming a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Onion: Add a spoonful of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Set Aside the Onion: Remove the cooked onion from the skillet and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Heat Butter and Oil: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat until the butter melts and blends with the oil, creating a rich base for cooking the potatoes.
2. Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Place the diced potatoes in the skillet. Season with seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Toss the potatoes in the pan to ensure they’re coated evenly with the seasonings.
3. Cover and Cook: Cover the skillet and cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. The potatoes should start to soften and develop a golden-brown crust. Cooking with the lid on helps to steam the potatoes, allowing them to cook through evenly.

Step 3: Add the Sausage

1. Add Smoked Sausage: After the potatoes have softened, add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet.
2. Cook Until Crispy: Stir occasionally and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown and crisp up. The smoky flavor of the sausage adds depth to the dish, while the slight browning enhances its savory taste.

Step 4: Add Bell Peppers and Onion

1. Combine Peppers and Onion: Add the sautéed onion back into the skillet along with the red and green bell peppers.
2. Sauté Until Soft-Crisp: Stir the mixture and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the peppers are soft but still have a slight crunch. This adds color, flavor, and texture, balancing the richness of the potatoes and sausage.

Step 5: Serve with Parmesan Cheese

1. Add Parmesan (Optional): For an added touch of savory flavor, sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish just before serving.
2. Plate and Enjoy: Serve hot, either as a standalone dish or with sides like eggs, toast, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Fried Potatoes, Onions, and Smoked Polish Sausage

1. Use the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are an excellent choice because they have a starchy texture that crisps up well in the pan. Yukon Gold potatoes can work too if you prefer a creamier texture.

2. Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

3. Control the Heat

Cook the potatoes over medium heat to prevent burning while allowing them to develop a crispy crust. Adjust the heat if needed to ensure even cooking.

4. Use a Large Skillet

A large skillet allows the ingredients to spread out and cook evenly, ensuring the potatoes and sausage become crispy without overcrowding the pan.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes and condiments. Here are some ideas:

• Fried or Poached Eggs: Serve with eggs for a hearty breakfast.
• Green Salad: A light salad balances the richness of the potatoes and sausage.
• Fresh Bread or Toast: Dip into the flavorful oils for a complete meal.
• Hot Sauce or Ketchup: Add a touch of spice or sweetness if desired.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or use the microwave for a quick option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?

Yes, any smoked sausage will work well. You can substitute with turkey sausage, kielbasa, or even andouille for a spicier kick.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish for a bit of heat.

3. What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?

Parmesan is optional, but you can use other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.

4. How Can I Make This a One-Pan Meal?

To make this dish a complete one-pan meal, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes during the final cooking stage.

5. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Fried Potatoes, Onions, and Smoked Polish Sausage is a deliciously satisfying dish that’s easy to make and sure to please. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll have a flavorful, comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Enjoy this hearty dish on its own, or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s both comforting and filling.