Loaded Cheddar Bacon Potato and Sausage Skillet
A Hearty, Comforting One-Pan Meal
There’s nothing quite like a skillet meal that brings together the best of hearty, savory ingredients in a single dish. This Loaded Cheddar Bacon Potato and Sausage Skillet is the ultimate comfort food—golden potatoes, smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese—all combined to create a dish that’s perfect for dinner or even a cozy brunch. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and customizable to suit your family’s preferences.
Ingredients Overview
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role. Here’s a closer look to help you understand their importance and how to select the best.
- 4 Medium Potatoes, Diced: Yukon Golds or red potatoes are excellent choices for this dish. They hold their shape well while cooking and develop a beautiful golden crust.
- 1 lb Sausage, Sliced: Choose your favorite type of sausage. Smoked kielbasa or andouille sausage adds bold flavors, while Italian sausage adds a subtle spice.
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a punch of flavor and melts beautifully. Feel free to experiment with a cheddar blend for added depth.
- 6 Strips of Bacon, Cooked and Crumbled: Crispy, smoky bacon is a must. Thick-cut bacon works particularly well.
- 1 Onion, Diced: Yellow onions caramelize beautifully, adding sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 2 Cloves of Garlic, Minced: Fresh garlic adds a subtle aromatic depth to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper, to Taste: Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning! Adjust to suit your taste.
- Chopped Parsley for Garnish: This adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced sausage. Cook until both sides are golden brown, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Tip: For added flavor, don’t clean the skillet after removing the sausage. The browned bits on the bottom are flavor gold!
Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
Add a drizzle of olive oil or reserved bacon grease to the same skillet. Toss in the diced potatoes, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer. Cook on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are golden and cooked through.
Tip: Resist the urge to stir too often! Letting the potatoes sit allows them to develop a crispy crust.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Once the potatoes are golden, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Bacon
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, followed by the crumbled bacon. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the cheese melt, about 2–3 minutes.
Tip: If you prefer a crispy cheese topping, transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Tip: For a little kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika on top before serving.
Valuable Tips for Seamless Cooking
1. Use a Cast Iron Skillet: This ensures even cooking and adds a rustic charm to your dish.
2. Precook Potatoes for Speed: Parboiling or microwaving diced potatoes before sautéing will reduce cooking time.
3. Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference.
4. Keep It Crisp: Drain bacon on a paper towel to retain its crispiness.
5. Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Heat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Alternatively, use a microwave, but cover the dish to retain moisture.
- Freezing: While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Loaded Cheddar Bacon Potato and Sausage Skillet – 20 FAQ with Detailed Answers
1. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and works wonderfully in this skillet recipe. You might notice a lighter flavor, so feel free to adjust the seasonings if needed.
2. What type of potatoes are best for this dish?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape well when cooked and have a creamy texture. Russet potatoes can also work but may become a bit softer.
3. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon saves time, but for the best flavor, cook your bacon fresh. The grease can also be used to enhance the potatoes and sausage.
4. How do I make the dish less greasy?
Drain excess grease from the bacon and sausage after cooking. You can also blot the cooked ingredients with a paper towel before combining.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, and even spinach pair wonderfully with the hearty flavors of this recipe.
6. How can I make this dish spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a spicy sausage to give the dish a kick.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your sausage and bacon are certified gluten-free, this recipe contains no gluten.
8. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Cook the potatoes, sausage, and bacon ahead of time, and assemble them in the skillet when ready to serve. Reheat and add the cheese and garnishes fresh.
9. What’s the best way to ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Dice the potatoes into uniform pieces and parboil them for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet.
10. How long does this dish take to prepare?
From start to finish, it takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on your prep time.
11. Can I use a cast-iron skillet?
Absolutely! A cast-iron skillet is perfect for this recipe as it distributes heat evenly and helps achieve crispy potatoes.
12. How much cheese should I use?
The recipe typically calls for about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.
13. What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist.
14. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and skip the sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.
15. How can I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
16. How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat in a skillet on medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the potatoes soggy.
17. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet or cook in batches.
18. How can I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Use a nonstick skillet or make sure the pan is well-oiled before adding the potatoes. Cooking them over medium heat and stirring occasionally will also help.
19. Can I use leftover baked potatoes?
Yes, leftover baked potatoes work great! Dice them up and add them directly to the skillet for a quicker prep time.
20. What garnishes pair well with this dish?
Fresh chives, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream make excellent garnishes. You can also sprinkle on some additional cooked bacon for extra flavor.
