Smoked Sausage, Green Beans & Potato Skillet

The scent of smoked sausage sizzling in a pan always takes me back to my childhood. My grandmother, a true Southern cook, would often whip up a hearty skillet meal using whatever vegetables were in season. The smoky aroma mingling with the earthy scent of potatoes and green beans was pure comfort, and even though her version was slightly different, this dish evokes the same feeling of warmth and home with every bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (check sausage ingredients)

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage (I recommend Eckrich Skinless Smoked Sausage)
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon oil
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can Del Monte diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (29 ounce) can Del Monte cut green beans with new potatoes, drained
• 1-2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce (to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Instructions

1. Begin by slicing the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch thick pieces. This thickness allows for even cooking and browning.

2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced sausage and chopped onion.

3. Cook the sausage and onion until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes, and the sausage is browned on both sides. Be sure to turn the sausage occasionally for even browning.

4. Pour the undrained can of Del Monte diced tomatoes into the skillet with the sausage and onion.

5. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. The tomatoes will break down and create a light sauce.

6. Add the drained can of Del Monte cut green beans with new potatoes to the skillet.

7. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Heat through for about 3 minutes, ensuring the green beans and potatoes are warmed.

8. Stir in the hot pepper sauce, starting with 1 teaspoon and adding more to taste. I personally enjoy using Frank’s RedHot for its balanced flavor.

9. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the skillet.

10. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

11. Serve immediately, over rice if desired, with additional hot pepper sauce on the side.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Sausage Selection: While I recommend Eckrich Skinless Smoked Sausage, feel free to experiment with different varieties. Andouille sausage adds a spicy kick, while kielbasa offers a more robust, garlicky flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce accordingly.
• Cheese Choice: Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients, but cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a sprinkle of pepper jack would also work well.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet. Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn would all be delicious additions.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can cook the sausage, onion, and tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply add the green beans, potatoes, hot pepper sauce, and cheese, and heat through.
• Adjusting the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few minutes longer without the lid to allow it to reduce.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Smoked Sausage, Green Beans & Potato Skillet is best served hot, straight from the skillet. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream can add a touch of elegance. As the original recipe suggests, this is wonderful served over rice, but mashed potatoes, grits, or even a simple piece of crusty bread are great accompaniments.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious. Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the potatoes and green beans changing upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	654.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	451 g	69%
Total Fat	50.2 g	77%
Saturated Fat	21.2 g	105%
Cholesterol	115.1 mg	38%
Sodium	2188.8 mg	91%
Total Carbohydrate	13.2 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	8%
Sugars	5.8 g	23%
Protein	36.8 g	73%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicier Kick: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicier sausage, such as andouille.
• Vegetarian Option: While the smoked sausage is the star of this dish, you could substitute it with plant-based sausage alternatives or add additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium sausage and canned vegetables to reduce the sodium content.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack, to add different flavor profiles.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just be sure to blanch them first to ensure they cook through properly. Add them to the skillet along with the diced tomatoes.

Q: Is it necessary to drain the green beans and potatoes?
A: Yes, draining them is important to prevent the skillet from becoming too watery.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.

Q: How can I make this dish less spicy?
A: Simply reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce or omit it altogether.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar, Colby Jack, or any other cheese that melts well.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Sausage, Green Beans & Potato Skillet is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your own tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I’m sure it will become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! I would love to hear what you think, so don’t hesitate to share your feedback. Consider pairing it with a crisp garden salad or a slice of cornbread for a complete and comforting meal.