Get ready to fall in love with Glazed Sausage and Potatoes: a mouthwatering skillet dinner that’s the definition of comfort food. Imagine fork-tender baby potatoes and smoky slices of sausage, all tossed together in a sweet, tangy glaze that hugs every bite. This dish brings together simple pantry staples in a way that delivers big on both flavor and heartiness. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for when you’re hosting friends, and it’s the kind of meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need an endless list to make Glazed Sausage and Potatoes truly shine. Each ingredient serves a purpose: some add color, others richness or sparkle, but together they create magic in the skillet. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Baby potatoes (1 1/2 lbs, halved): Creamy and quick-cooking, these soak up the glaze and provide the ultimate comfort base.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps the sausage brown beautifully and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- Smoked sausage or kielbasa (14 oz, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds): Brings that smoky, meaty essence and a slight snap with every bite.
- Onion (1/2 cup, thinly sliced): The sweetness and tender crunch balance all the deep flavors happening in the skillet.
- Brown sugar (1/3 cup): For rich caramel notes and the signature glossy finish to the glaze.
- Dijon mustard (3 tbsp): Tang and a hint of spice cut through the sweetness perfectly.
- Soy sauce (2 tbsp): Adds depth and that irresistible umami you’ll crave.
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp): Wakes up all the flavors and brightens the entire dish.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): For velvety richness in every forkful.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Provides an earthy background note without overpowering the glaze.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): A gentle heat that ties everything together.
- Chopped parsley (2 tbsp, optional for garnish): The finishing touch for fresh, herbaceous color and a little lift.
How to Make Glazed Sausage and Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by bringing a pot of well-salted water to a boil, just as you would for pasta. Drop in the halved baby potatoes and let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, until they yield easily to a fork but aren’t mushy. This quick boil ensures your potatoes stay creamy inside, perfectly setting the stage for them to soak up the glaze later. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat your largest skillet over medium-high and swirl in the olive oil. Add the sliced smoked sausage and watch as each piece develops deep, crispy edges and a toasty aroma. Give them a good 4 to 5 minutes, flipping once to get both sides golden. Remove the sausage and set aside, but don’t wipe out the pan — those browned bits are packed with flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Lower the heat to medium and toss your sliced onions into the same skillet along with the butter. Let them cook gently in that buttery, sausage-infused fat for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened and lightly golden. The onions soak up all that goodness, adding sweet and savory notes to the final dish.
Step 4: Build the Glaze
Now it’s time for that signature shine! Stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let the mixture bubble away for around 2 minutes, just until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. You’ll see it transform before your eyes into something irresistible.
Step 5: Toss and Glaze
Add the cooked potatoes and browned sausage right back into the skillet. Turn to coat everything in the sticky, flavorful glaze, making sure every piece gets glossy and delicious. Let them cook together for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the potatoes finish caramelizing and the flavors meld. To finish, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a little extra sparkle.
How to Serve Glazed Sausage and Potatoes
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley gives Glazed Sausage and Potatoes a pop of color and a burst of herby freshness. You could also try thinly sliced green onions or even a pinch of flaky salt for extra flavor and crunch. If you love a little zing, a light squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can work wonders.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you’d like to round things out, serve it with a crisp green salad or simply steamed broccoli for a fresh contrast. Buttered peas or roasted carrots make another colorful, family-friendly pairing to balance the richness of the glazed sausage and potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Glazed Sausage and Potatoes straight from the skillet at the center of your table for rustic flair, or pile it high on a big platter for cozy, family-style sharing. For fun individual servings, try scooping portions into mini cast iron pans, or present on a bed of lightly wilted greens to make it feel a little more upscale.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Glazed Sausage and Potatoes keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before storing to preserve both texture and flavor. It’s great for weekday lunches or quick dinners!
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Glazed Sausage and Potatoes. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the potatoes may soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors stay bold and satisfying.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the glaze, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave covered portions in short bursts, stirring in between. A fresh scattering of parsley after reheating brings everything back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While smoked sausage or kielbasa provide that classic savoriness, you can use andouille for a spicy twist or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just be sure to select a fully cooked sausage, as the recipe relies on browning for flavor rather than cooking through.
What’s the easiest way to tell when the potatoes are done?
The key is fork-tender: you should be able to slide a fork into the largest potato chunk without much resistance. Avoid overcooking, as you want the potatoes to hold their shape when tossed in the glaze.
How can I make Glazed Sausage and Potatoes vegetarian?
Simply swap the sausage for your favorite plant-based sausage or even thick slices of sautéed mushrooms. The hearty glaze still does all the flavor heavy lifting, and you won’t feel like you’re missing a thing.
Is this dish spicy?
No, Glazed Sausage and Potatoes as written is more sweet and tangy than spicy. If you like a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze.
Can I prepare Glazed Sausage and Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dish up to a day in advance. Just cool, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving. Add fresh parsley just before eating for the best flavor and appearance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious, Glazed Sausage and Potatoes should be at the top of your list. With bold flavors and simple steps, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Grab your favorite skillet and give it a try — your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
Print
Glazed Sausage and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A savory and sweet dish featuring glazed smoked sausage and tender baby potatoes, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Baby Potatoes:
- 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
Glazed Sausage:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 14 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Boil baby potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Sausage: Brown sausage slices in a skillet. Set aside.
- Make Glaze: Cook onions, then add brown sugar, mustard, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, and pepper. Simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss potatoes and sausage in glaze. Cook until caramelized.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider roasting the potatoes instead of boiling them.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
