Fried Potatoes with Onions and Smoked Polish Sausage

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This Fried Potatoes with Onions and Smoked Polish Sausage recipe is the definition of rustic comfort. With golden brown potato slices, caramelized onions, and smoky sausage crisped to perfection, this skillet meal brings serious flavor with minimal effort. It’s one of those go-to dishes that satisfies cravings fast and fills the house with nostalgic aromas.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner after a long day or a hearty brunch dish that keeps everyone full, this one-pan wonder has you covered. The magic lies in the contrast—crispy edges on the sausage and potatoes, tender bites of onion, and that smoky aroma that ties it all together. It’s a homestyle meal you’ll turn to again and again.

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What Kind of Potatoes and Sausage Should I Use?

For the best texture, use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape and brown beautifully. As for the sausage, traditional smoked Polish kielbasa is the star. It brings a deep, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of caramelized onions perfectly. If you like a bit of spice, opt for a spicy version.

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Ingredients for the Fried Potatoes with Onions and Smoked Polish Sausage

• 1 lb smoked Polish sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

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How To Make the Fried Potatoes with Onions and Smoked Polish Sausage

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Wash and thinly slice your potatoes and onion. Slice the smoked sausage into ¼-inch thick rounds and set everything aside.

Step 2: Start with the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sear the sausage slices until they develop a golden-brown crust on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Toss in the sliced onions and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden.

Step 4: Fry the Potatoes

Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the skillet with the onions. Spread them out evenly and let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes so they start to crisp. Stir occasionally and cook for another 10-12 minutes, until tender and golden brown.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Return the sausage to the skillet with the potatoes and onions. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot straight from the skillet for the best crispy bites.

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Serving and Storing Fried Potatoes with Onions and Smoked Polish Sausage

This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, where the potatoes are at their crispiest and the sausage is sizzling hot. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream, a fried egg, or a side of sauerkraut if you’re going for a full-on Eastern European vibe.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, crisp them up in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the air fryer. The microwave will work too but won’t give you that satisfying crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sausage works best for this recipe?

Smoked Polish kielbasa is ideal, but you can also use andouille, turkey sausage, or any smoked link with bold flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the potatoes and onions ahead of time. Store them submerged in water in the fridge to keep them from browning. Cook just before serving.

How do I keep the potatoes from sticking?

Use a good non-stick or cast iron skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the potatoes sit undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a crust before flipping.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if your smoked sausage is certified gluten-free. Always check the label to be sure.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions.

What if I want it spicier?

Toss in some red pepper flakes or swap the sausage for a spicy version.

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Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Fried Potatoes with Onions and Smoked Polish Sausage, you’ll probably enjoy these other savory skillet favorites:

• Try the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich, pan-seared dish that pairs perfectly with crusty bread.
• Check out the One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles if you’re looking for quick comfort food in a flash.
• For a pasta variation, the Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a crowd-pleasing choice packed with bold Italian flavors.
• Need a veggie-packed meal? The Healthy Sausage Veggie Skillet Meal is a perfect weeknight go-to.
• And don’t miss the comforting classic Shipwreck Dinner — all the cozy vibes in one pan.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Yukon Golds or reds? Did you sneak in extra veggies or add a dash of heat?

I love seeing your spins on these simple skillet meals. Got questions or tips? Share away—let’s keep the flavor conversation going!

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