Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both comforting and surprisingly quick to make? Look no further! This ground sausage and potatoes recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying homemade meal. It's packed with flavor, incredibly versatile, and easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to experience the magic of this simple yet incredibly satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (Italian or your favorite blend)
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and green pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your delicious dish.
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Brown the sausage: Add the ground sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Make sure the sausage is fully cooked through for food safety.
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Combine ingredients: Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer until potatoes are tender: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve hot. This dish is wonderful on its own, or you can pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Ground Sausage and Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will help ensure the sausage browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Use different sausage: Experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo, kielbasa, or breakfast sausage.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a serving of this dish generally provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional data, utilize a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This ground sausage and potatoes recipe is a perfect example of how simple, delicious food can be. It's a versatile dish that easily adapts to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a true weeknight winner. Enjoy!