One-Pan Budget Meal: How to Make Southern Fried Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Looking for a delicious meal that won’t break the bank? Look no further than this one-pan budget meal, which uses only a handful of ingredients. The star of the dish? Smoky sausage and sweet onions, which pair perfectly with the crispy potatoes. Not only is this meal affordable, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Simply cook everything in one pan, and you’ll have a hearty and satisfying dinner in no time.

A DELICIOUS AND HEARTY BUDGET MEAL

Fried potatoes and smoked sausage are not only a delicious and satisfying meal, but also a great option for those looking for budget meals. Potatoes are one of the most affordable vegetables available, and they can be prepared in a variety of ways. When you combine the potatoes with smoked sausage, the result is a hearty meal that won’t break the bank.

The preparation of this dish is also simple, meaning that you won’t need to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. By choosing this budget meal, you can enjoy a filling and tasty dinner without worrying about the cost.

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS ONE-PAN BUDGET MEAL

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that will satisfy even the toughest of appetites. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, the potatoes and sausage provide plenty of protein and carbs to keep you full and energized.

• Potatoes – When it comes to selecting the perfect potato for frying, there are a few things to consider. You want a potato that will absorb minimal oil and crisp up nicely, and that’s where Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes come in. Russet potatoes, in particular, are a popular choice because they are known for their low moisture content and high starch levels, which make for perfectly crispy and golden brown potatoes.
• Onion – When it comes to frying onions, not all onions are created equal. If you’re aiming for a crispy and caramelized finish, you want to use sweet onions. These onions contain extra sugar which helps them caramelize faster and they are tastier than other varieties. Their mild and slightly sweet taste, adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
• Olive Oil – Not only is olive oil a healthier choice, but it also produces a tasty result. Using olive oil for frying allows you to enjoy your favorite meals without sacrificing your health. It contains healthy monounsaturated fats, which can provide many health benefits such as reducing inflammation and lowering cholesterol levels.
• Smoked Sausage – You’ll want to keep an eye out for sausages bursting with bold flavors, such as kielbasa or andouille. These types of sausages will bring a delightful kick to your meal, standing out amongst the potatoes and onions. It’s important to ensure that the sausages are fully cooked, not just for safety reasons, but also because they cook faster, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
• Spices and Seasonings – Adding garlic, salt, and pepper to your fried potatoes and sausage may seem like a small step, but it can make a world of difference in terms of flavor. Garlic is known for its pungent taste and aroma, which goes perfectly with the flavor of the sausage. The salt and pepper, bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and add a touch of spice to the dish.

HOW TO PREPARE FRIED POTATOES & SAUSAGE – STEP BY STEP

1. It all starts with the prep work. First up the potatoes, give them a good wash and then cut them into cubes so they will cook evenly. Next, slice up the sausage and onion.
2. Heat up your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a couple tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up for a few minutes. Once that oil is hot, toss in the chopped up potatoes and onions. Make sure everything is evenly distributed and season with generous amounts of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let your skillet do the work and allow the potatoes and onions to cook to a perfect golden brown. Stir occasionally, this should take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and get ready to add in the star of this dish – sliced sausage. The key to getting the perfect flavor is to mix everything together in the pan and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. You want your sausage to be nice and crispy, so keep an eye on it until it’s browned to perfection.
4. Before you dish it out, remember to remove the pan from the heat and let everything settle for a few minutes. This small step ensures that the flavors fuse together making every bite delicious.

ALTERNATIVE COOKING METHOD

Try baking everything on a single sheet instead? All you have to do is toss the potatoes, onions, and sausage with olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Then, spread everything out evenly on a lined baking sheet and pop it into your preheated 450F oven for 40-45 minutes.

DELICIOUS BUDGET MEAL OPTIONS

• Spice things up with a fiery kick by tossing in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce when adding the sausage.
• You can swap out the sausage with your preferred protein, like ground beef or leftover chicken.
• Try adding some colorful veggies like bell pepper, zucchini, or carrots! They not only add vibrant flavors but also make your meal more well-rounded and nutritious.
• For an extra level of heartiness, add a can of drained black beans when adding the sausage.
• For a delicious and satisfying breakfast, serve with a fried egg on top!
• Serve with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream
• For a tasty twist, when you’re adding the sausage, mix in a jar of flavorful pesto sauce.
• Add a burst of flavor to your dish by experimenting with a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. Consider trying thyme, rosemary, and for a little kick, paprika.

HOW TO SERVE FRIED POTATOES & SAUSAGE

Not only can this dynamic duo be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but it also offers endless opportunities for reinvention. Want to add a little extra pizzazz? Try garnishing with some fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of flavor!

HOW TO STORE LEFTOVERS

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them once again, just heat a skillet, add in your delicious leftovers, and cook until they’re heated all the way through.

This one-pan classic Southern dish of fried potatoes, onion, and smoked sausage is a game-changer for anyone looking to save money while still indulging in delicious comfort food. Not only is this budget meal easy on the wallet and quick to make, but it also offers endless possibilities for customization. You can switch up the type of sausage or add your favorite spices for a personalized touch. And let’s not forget about the convenience of only using one pan for cooking and cleaning- an added bonus for those busy weeknights! So whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or just looking for a comforting meal without breaking the bank, this recipe is definitely worth trying.

What other ingredients do you like to add to jazz up this classic dish?