Smoked Sausage and Potatoes in Stock
Smoked sausage and potatoes in stock is the kind of dish that takes very little effort but rewards you with deep, comforting flavor. It is a meal that feels like home, with tender potatoes soaking up savory broth and slices of smoky sausage creating a rich base that needs no extra fuss. Whether cooked on a busy weeknight or simmered slowly on a chilly afternoon, this simple recipe delivers warmth, heartiness, and pure satisfaction in every spoonful.
The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward ingredients. Nothing fancy, nothing complicated, and nothing that sends you on a long trip to the store. Most kitchens already have potatoes and onions available, and smoked sausage is one of those affordable proteins that stores well and cooks quickly. A pot of stock brings everything together, turning basic ingredients into a meal that feels nostalgic and home cooked.
This recipe works with any variety of smoked sausage. Beef, pork, turkey, or a blend all work equally well, each one offering its own flavor. The smoky spices inside the sausage melt into the broth as it simmers, seasoning the potatoes naturally without needing a long ingredient list. It is the kind of recipe that proves simple cooking can still taste wonderfully rich.
Potatoes also play a starring role. Any type of potato can be used, but waxy potatoes hold their shape better during simmering. They absorb the broth without turning mushy, and their mild flavor allows the sausage to shine. When simmered together, the sausage and potatoes create a pot filled with layered flavor that feels rustic and satisfying.
One of the best parts of this dish is how customizable it is. Some cooks prefer adding carrots for a touch of sweetness or celery for an earthy base. Others include garlic for extra depth or a handful of fresh herbs at the end for brightness. None of these additions are required, but they can create variations that suit any taste. The foundation of smoked sausage, potatoes, and stock is strong enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand.
To prepare this dish, start by slicing the smoked sausage into rounds and giving them a quick sauté. This step releases a bit of the flavorful fat and creates browning that contributes to a richer overall taste. Once they’re lightly browned, onions can be added and cooked until soft and fragrant. This base alone starts to fill the kitchen with an aroma that feels like a warm welcome.
After the onions soften, the diced potatoes are added along with enough stock to generously cover everything. Chicken stock is the most common choice, but vegetable or beef stock work just as well. The broth is the key to turning the potatoes creamy and infused with flavor. As the pot simmers, the stock reduces slightly and thickens naturally with the starch from the potatoes.
The pot should simmer until the potatoes turn tender when pierced with a fork. They absorb the essence of the sausage and broth as they cook, and the dish slowly transforms into something thick, savory, and deeply satisfying. A bit of seasoning can be added toward the end if needed, but many people find that the sausage provides plenty of saltiness and spice on its own.
This dish can be enjoyed just as it is, directly from the pot, but some cooks like finishing it with a handful of fresh herbs or a touch of cracked pepper. A pat of butter stirred in at the end creates a slightly richer finish, while a splash of cream can turn it into something even more comforting. None of these additions are required, but the recipe welcomes creativity from anyone who enjoys experimenting.
Smoked sausage and potatoes in stock also makes excellent leftovers. As it sits in the refrigerator, the flavors deepen and blend together even more. Reheating is simple, and the dish holds up well whether warmed on the stovetop or in the microwave. It can also be stretched further by adding more broth to turn it into a heartier soup the next day.
For families, this dish is often a favorite because it is budget friendly, filling, and uses pantry staples. For busy cooks, it brings convenience with minimal preparation. For anyone craving comfort food, it offers familiar flavors that soothe and satisfy. It is a humble dish, but one that proves that comfort sometimes comes from the simplest ingredients simmered together with patience.
Below is a straightforward recipe that captures everything people love about this dish. It is uncomplicated, flavorful, and perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients
1 to 1½ pounds smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
5 to 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
3 to 4 cups stock of your choice (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
2 tablespoons oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional additions: sliced carrots, celery, garlic, herbs, or a splash of cream
Instructions
Heat the oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and allow it to brown lightly on both sides. This step builds the base flavor that will carry through the entire dish.
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it becomes soft and fragrant. If you are adding carrots or celery, you can include them at this stage and allow them to soften slightly.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir well, allowing them to mix with the sausage and onions. Pour in enough stock to completely cover the potatoes. If you are adding garlic, stir it in now.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook until the potatoes are tender, usually around 20 to 25 minutes. If the liquid reduces too much, an extra splash of stock can be added as needed.
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Most smoked sausage already contains seasoning, so start lightly.
Serve the dish warm, either as-is or with optional additions like herbs or a small splash of cream for extra richness.
Smoked sausage and potatoes in stock is the kind of meal that brings comfort with every bite. It blends simple ingredients into something warming and flavorful, proving that good food doesn’t need to be complicated. With minimal prep and ingredients that are easy to find, it is a dish worth keeping in your regular rotation, especially during the months when hot, hearty meals feel like a must.