If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that brings together the best of simple ingredients, you are absolutely going to love this Sautéed Potatoes and Green Beans with Smoked Sausage Recipe. The way the smoky, savory sausage blends with crisp-tender green beans and perfectly tender potatoes creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s comforting, colorful, and downright addictive, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special without requiring complicated steps or fancy ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a vital role: the sausage adds smoky richness, the potatoes bring comforting heartiness, and the green beans lend a fresh, crisp bite with vibrant color. These essentials create a balanced, well-rounded dish that’s easy to prepare and enjoy any day of the week.
- Smoked sausage (1 pound, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces): Choose a quality sausage for the best smoky flavor and firm texture.
- Baby potatoes (1 pound, halved or quartered): Yukon gold, red, or fingerling potatoes work wonderfully for even cooking and creamy insides.
- Fresh green beans (1 pound, trimmed): Look for crisp, bright green beans to keep that snap after cooking.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruity richness while helping everything sauté beautifully.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Gives a silky, slightly nutty depth that complements the smoky sausage.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A quick way to add savory, aromatic notes without chopping fresh garlic.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the base flavor with sweet and savory undertones.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings color and gentle smokiness that echoes the sausage perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Water (1/4 cup): Used to steam the potatoes and green beans just right, keeping them tender yet crisp.
How to Make Sautéed Potatoes and Green Beans with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the smoked sausage slices. Sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step infuses the oil with smoky flavor and creates the rich base for the rest of the dish. Remove the sausage and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
Using the same skillet, toss in the halved or quartered baby potatoes. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to lightly brown and soak up all the delicious seasoning. This partial cooking jumpstarts the tenderness before steaming.
Step 3: Steam the Potatoes
Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet and quickly cover it with a lid. The steam helps finish cooking the potatoes gently, making them tender inside without falling apart. Let them steam for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
Step 4: Cook the Green Beans
Next, add the fresh green beans to the skillet on top of the potatoes. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes. The beans should turn a lively bright green and become tender-crisp, providing that perfect bite to contrast the soft potatoes and savory sausage.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Finally, return the browned smoked sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, and gives the sausage one more chance to crisp up slightly. Serve this glorious skillet meal warm and enjoy the harmony of textures and tastes.
How to Serve Sautéed Potatoes and Green Beans with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can brighten the dish and add a fresh contrast to the smoky sausage. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat for those who like a little kick. A squeeze of lemon just before serving can also uplift the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is quite balanced and hearty on its own, simple sides work best. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to mop up all those savory juices complements it perfectly. For a touch of sweetness, roasted carrots or a cranberry relish make lovely companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this meal family-style in the skillet it was cooked in, straight to the table—it’s warming and inviting that way. For a more elegant presentation, plate the potatoes and green beans topped with sausage, then drizzle with a little herb-infused oil or a tangy mustard sauce for an impressive finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors actually marry nicely overnight, making next-day servings even tastier. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before eating.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare meals in advance. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed and reheated, the texture of potatoes might soften slightly but remains delicious and comforting.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. Cover briefly to steam through, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make the potatoes mushy or dry out the sausage.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives this dish its signature flavor, you can substitute with kielbasa, Andouille, or even a spicy chorizo for variation. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different sausages vary in thickness and fat content.
Are fresh green beans necessary?
Fresh green beans offer the best texture and vibrant color, but if fresh aren’t available, frozen green beans can work in a pinch. Just add them after steaming the potatoes and cook a little longer until heated through.
What is the best potato to use?
Yukon golds, reds, and fingerlings hold their shape well and cook evenly in this dish. Avoid starchy russets as they can get overly soft or mushy during steaming.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian option, swap the smoked sausage for hearty plant-based sausage or smoked tofu. Adjust seasoning accordingly to keep that smoky depth in the dish.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, focusing on smoky and savory flavors. If you want to add spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicier sausage variety.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely encourage you to try this Sautéed Potatoes and Green Beans with Smoked Sausage Recipe. It’s one of those comfort meals that bring joy in every bite without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a satisfying dinner for yourself, this dish delivers cozy flavors and a wonderful balance of textures that make you want to savor every mouthful.
Print
Sautéed Potatoes and Green Beans with Smoked Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty dish features sautéed potatoes and fresh green beans combined with smoky, flavorful sausage, all cooked together in a skillet for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. The potatoes are seasoned and steamed to tender perfection, while the green beans add a bright and crisp texture. The sausage is browned to enhance its smoky flavor, making this an easy, gluten-free main course perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Vegetables
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the halved or quartered baby potatoes. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the potatoes for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Steam the Potatoes: Add 1/4 cup water to the skillet and immediately cover it. Let the potatoes steam for 10–12 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the Green Beans: Stir in the trimmed green beans, cover the skillet again, and cook for another 5–6 minutes until the beans turn bright green and become tender-crisp.
- Combine and Finish: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking uncovered for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the sautéed potatoes, green beans, and sausage warm for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can use red, Yukon gold, or fingerling potatoes for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, try adding minced fresh garlic or a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
- Adjust seasoning to taste based on the saltiness of the smoked sausage.
- Make sure the green beans are trimmed properly for the best bite and texture.
