Smoky Sausage One-Pan Dinner

This smoked sausage and green bean skillet has become my go-to weeknight solution when I need a satisfying meal without the fuss. The combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and crisp green beans creates a complete one-pan dinner that consistently earns rave reviews at my dinner table.

I first made this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I had zero energy for complicated cooking. My family devoured it so enthusiastically that it's now in our regular rotation at least twice a month.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage: Adds wonderful flavor without requiring much work. I prefer kielbasa or andouille for their robust flavor but any variety works beautifully.
• Olive oil: Creates the perfect base for browning the sausage and developing flavor.
• Onion and garlic: Form the aromatic foundation. Fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
• Baby potatoes: Hold their shape while cooking and absorb the savory flavors. Look for uniformly sized ones for even cooking.
• Chicken broth: Infuses everything with savory depth. Homemade is wonderful but a good quality store bought works perfectly.
• Smoked paprika: Amplifies the smoky notes from the sausage. The Spanish variety has the most pronounced flavor.
• Green beans: Provide the perfect veggie balance. Select bright beans with no brown spots for the best texture and flavor.
• Butter: Added at the end creates a silky richness that brings everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer and let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes before stirring. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are caramelized and golden brown. This step builds tremendous flavor so resist the urge to stir constantly.

Create the flavor base:

Remove the sausage to a plate but leave all those delicious browned bits in the pan. Add your chopped onion to the remaining oil and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent and beginning to soften. The onions will release moisture that helps deglaze the pan. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant being careful not to let it brown or burn.

Simmer the potatoes:

Add halved potatoes, broth, smoked paprika, salt and pepper to the pan. The liquid should come about halfway up the potatoes. Cover the skillet tightly and reduce heat to medium low. Let the potatoes simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until they can be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

Finish with green beans:

Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and return the sausage to the pan. Stir everything together gently to combine all the flavors. Cover again and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the green beans are vibrant green and tender crisp. Fresh beans will need the full time while frozen ones might cook faster.

Add final touches:

Remove the lid and stir in the optional tablespoon of butter until melted. This creates a light sauce that coats everything beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The flavors should be well balanced with a wonderful savory depth.

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The smoked paprika is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I learned this trick from my grandmother who always added a pinch to her skillet meals. It adds a subtle smokiness that makes everyone wonder what your secret ingredient might be without being overpowering.

Make It Your Own

This skillet meal welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Yellow squash and zucchini make excellent summer substitutions for green beans. Bell peppers add wonderful color and sweetness when added during the last few minutes of cooking. For a spicier version, incorporate a diced jalapeño with the onions or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage and Reheating

The leftovers from this skillet meal actually improve overnight as the flavors continue to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best reheating results, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Microwaving works too but may make the potatoes slightly softer.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish stands beautifully on its own, it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet. For heartier appetites, serve over steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A dollop of whole grain mustard on the side offers a tangy complement to the smoky sausage.

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Common Questions

→ Can I use different types of sausage in this skillet dish?

Yes, this recipe works well with various smoked sausage options. You can use beef, pork, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage alternatives. Just ensure whatever sausage you choose is fully cooked/smoked, not raw, for the correct cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for green beans?

You can easily substitute other vegetables based on what's in season or your preferences. Good alternatives include sliced zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli florets, or asparagus. Adjust cooking time slightly as needed—zucchini and bell peppers cook faster than green beans, while broccoli might need a minute or two longer.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This skillet meal reheats beautifully, making it excellent for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

→ How can I make this dish more filling?

To make this dish more substantial, serve it over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta. You could also add a can of drained and rinsed white beans or chickpeas when you return the sausage to the skillet for added protein and fiber. A side of crusty bread is another simple addition.

→ What herbs or spices would complement this skillet meal?

This versatile dish works well with many herbs and spices. Try adding dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano along with the smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill make excellent garnishes. For heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning also work well depending on your flavor preferences.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this dish is easy to make dairy-free. Simply omit the tablespoon of butter mentioned in the finishing step, or substitute it with olive oil, dairy-free butter, or a splash of additional broth to maintain moisture and flavor.