Easy Sausage & Potato Hash: Quick and Hearty Skillet Meal

Introduction

Looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make meal? This Easy Sausage & Potato Hash combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and colorful vegetables in a single skillet for a flavor-packed breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or meal prep.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and one-pan convenience. Potatoes roast in the sausage fat and seasonings, absorbing rich, savory flavors, while the vegetables add color, texture, and nutrition. This dish is filling, flavorful, and extremely versatile, making it a favorite for families and individuals alike.

Serve it with fried eggs, avocado, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Its quick prep, minimal cleanup, and customizable ingredients make it a go-to recipe for any time of the day.

Origins and Background

Hash is a classic comfort food, originating from the idea of “hashing” or chopping leftover ingredients and frying them together. Over time, it evolved into a standalone meal, typically featuring potatoes, onions, and a protein like sausage or corned beef.

Fun fact: Cooking the sausage and potatoes together allows the potatoes to absorb the flavorful fats and spices, creating a crispy exterior and tender interior. This one-pan method ensures balanced textures and rich flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked together.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Hearty & Filling: Protein from sausage and carbs from potatoes.
Flavorful: Savory sausage and seasonings enhance every ingredient.
Family-Friendly: Mild, tasty flavors everyone can enjoy.
Customizable: Add vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers for breakfast or dinner.
Nutritious & Balanced: Protein, fiber, and vitamins from vegetables.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Sausage & Potato Hash

500 g (1 lb) sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey), sliced or crumbled
4 medium potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups

Pro Tips

Cut potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Use sausage with your preferred fat content for flavor.
Pre-cook potatoes slightly in the microwave to reduce skillet cooking time.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Serve immediately for crispy edges and tender interiors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage slices or crumbles and cook 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

2. Sauté Aromatics

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

3. Cook the Potatoes

Add diced potatoes to the skillet, tossing to coat in the oil and sausage fat. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional thyme. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and lightly golden.

4. Add Vegetables and Sausage

Add diced bell pepper and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir well and cook an additional 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.

5. Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions. Pair with fried eggs, avocado, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Potatoes Undercooked: Dice smaller or cover the skillet for a few extra minutes.
Sausage Too Dry: Use a sausage with higher fat content or add a drizzle of olive oil.
Vegetables Overcooked: Add bell pepper later to maintain texture and color.
Hash Sticking: Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet and stir occasionally.
Flavor Too Mild: Increase smoked paprika, garlic, or herbs to taste.

Variations & Customizations

Extra Vegetables: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Spicy Version: Include chili flakes, hot paprika, or diced jalapeños.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hash before serving.
Grain Base: Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for extra bulk.
Protein Swap: Use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even cooked shredded chicken.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look or plate individually for a more polished presentation. Arrange sausage and vegetables evenly for a colorful, appetizing dish.

Pair with fried or poached eggs, avocado slices, or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness.
Make-Ahead: Dice potatoes and vegetables in advance to reduce prep time.
Freezing: Fully cooked hash freezes well; reheat gently to preserve texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: Yes, thaw or partially cook them first for even cooking.

Q: Can I make this spicier?
A: Add chili flakes, hot paprika, or diced jalapeños to taste.

Q: Can I prepare this for meal prep?
A: Absolutely, store in containers and reheat portions as needed.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Yes! Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach work well.

Conclusion

This Easy Sausage & Potato Hash is a quick, flavorful, and hearty one-pan meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Savory sausage, tender potatoes, and colorful vegetables come together in a simple, satisfying, and versatile dish.

Try it tonight for a stress-free, wholesome, and delicious meal that delivers bold flavors, vibrant colors, and minimal cleanup.

Easy Sausage & Potato Hash Recipe