Introduction to Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
When the day feels like a whirlwind, and the clock is ticking, I turn to my trusty recipe for Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate. With flavorful sausage, savory veggies, and silky mashed potatoes, it’s the perfect meal to whip up after a busy day. I know how precious time is, especially for busy moms and professionals like us. So, let’s dive into this comforting and hearty dish that will impress your loved ones and warm your heart!
Why You’ll Love This Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
This Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash is a lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s quick, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish. The flavor combination of savory sausage and rich, creamy potatoes is pure comfort. Plus, it’s a one-skillet wonder, which means less cleanup for us! You get a wholesome, hearty meal without the fuss, making it an absolute go-to for any hectic weeknight.
Ingredients for Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
Gathering the ingredients for my Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash is part of the fun. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- Olive oil: This golden elixir is perfect for sautéing and adds a touch of richness.
- Cooked chicken or beef sausage: Choose your favorite! The sausage is the star of the dish, adding depth and flavor.
- Yellow onion: Sweet and slightly caramelized, it builds a savory base for the dish.
- Garlic: A few cloves do wonders to elevate the flavor profile with their aromatic essence.
- Corn kernels: These provide a lovely burst of sweetness and texture to balance the savory elements.
- All-purpose flour: This helps create a roux, thickening the sauce and adding body to our skillet meal.
- Low sodium chicken or beef broth: This forms the luscious gravy, maximizing flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Dried thyme: This herb infuses a warm, earthy note. Fresh thyme works beautifully too, if you have it handy!
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together and enhance the dish.
- Creamy mashed potatoes: The perfect bed for the sausage mixture, providing comforting creaminess.
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish: A sprinkle adds a burst of color and freshness right at the end.
Feel free to experiment! For a healthier option, turkey sausage is a delicious substitute. You can also toss in other veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, for an extra nutritional punch. For exact measurements, check below where you can find everything neatly arranged for printing.
How to Make Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
Now that we’ve gathered everything, let’s embark on the delightful journey of making this Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash. Trust me, you’ll want to savor each moment! Follow my step-by-step guide to lock in those flavors, and get ready for a delicious meal.
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Cook the Sausage
To start, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Listen to that sizzle! Add the sliced sausage, spreading them evenly in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they turn golden brown and caramelize beautifully. This step brings out such rich flavors in the sausage. Once they’re perfectly browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. That crispy goodness is just the beginning!
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
With the sausage out of the pan, it’s time for the onions to shine! Reduce the heat to medium and toss in the chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onions for about 5 to 7 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up those delicious browned bits. Then, sprinkle in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step is key! Caramelizing the onions creates a sweet, savory base that’s irresistible. The garlic adds a lovely aroma, making your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 3: Create the Roux
Now, it’s roux time! Once the onions and garlic are ready, sprinkle two tablespoons of all-purpose flour over them. Stir constantly for about a minute. This will help form a nice roux, which is essential for thickening the gravy later. Not only does the roux create texture, but it also deepens the flavor profile, making your dish not just hearty, but also rich and satisfying. It’s that little bit of magic that ties everything together!
Step 4: Whisk in the Broth
Next, we’re going to focus on that luscious gravy! Gradually whisk in two cups of low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan as you go. This adds incredible depth from those flavor-packed bits left over from sautéing. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. You want it to coat the back of a spoon – that’s the perfect consistency!
Step 5: Add Corn and Sausage Back to Skillet
Once that gravy is beautifully thickened, it’s time to bring back the sausage! Stir in the corn kernels and gently fold the sausage into the mixture. Let everything simmer together for about 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This final blending is crucial, as it ensures every ingredient absorbs those wonderful flavors. You’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can harmonize into something spectacular!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Now comes the fun part! Carefully taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. When you’re happy with the flavor, it’s time to serve! Spoon generous portions of creamy mashed potatoes onto plates and ladle the savory sausage mixture on top. For the crowning touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme for that pop of color. Your Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Always preheat your skillet for even cooking.
- Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; it adds vital flavor.
- Use a whisk for smooth gravy—no lumps allowed!
- Taste as you go to adjust seasonings properly.
- Make extra mashed potatoes; they’re great for leftovers!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is best for even heat distribution.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and scraping up those delicious brown bits.
- Whisk: Handy for creating a lump-free roux and gravy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the right ingredients!
Variations of Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
- Turkey sausage: Swap out chicken or beef sausage for turkey sausage for a lower-fat option.
- Vegetarian version: Use plant-based sausage and add more seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for an exciting heat that elevates the flavors.
- Herb-infused mash: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or dill into your creamy mashed potatoes for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy delight: Stir in some shredded cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) into the gravy for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions for Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
- Fresh salad: Pair with a light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Crisp bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- White wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the savory flavors perfectly.
- Presentation: Garnish with additional herbs for a pop of color and texture.
FAQs about Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
Can I use uncooked sausage instead of cooked? Absolutely! Just make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before adding the onions. This will ensure it’s flavorful and safe to eat, adding a satisfying depth to your Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Just make sure to read the labels of the sausage and broth as well!
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, indeed! This Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash freezes beautifully. Just store in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal later!
What other vegetables can I add? Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, or even peas can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your skillet. Just add them along with the corn for a burst of color and texture.
Can I make creamy mashed potatoes from scratch? Definitely! While I provide an easier option, homemade mashed potatoes are simple. Just boil peeled potatoes, mash them with butter and cream (or milk), and then season. This will elevate your dish even more!
Final Thoughts on Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash
Cooking this Homestyle Sausage Skillet with Creamy Mash is truly a delightful experience. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a blend of flavors and memories that wrap around you like a warm embrace. As I serve it to my family, I can see their smiles light up the room. It’s the perfect remedy for hectic days, allowing us to sit down together, share stories, and enjoy every bite. The joy of creating comfort food that nourishes both body and soul is what makes this dish so special. I can’t wait for you to create these moments in your own kitchen!
Description
A comforting and hearty dish featuring flavorful sausage and creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for a homestyle meal.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply browned and caramelized on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan as the onion softens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, scraping the bottom of the pan until the gravy thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in the corn kernels and dried thyme. Return the sausage to the skillet and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. To serve, spoon mashed potatoes onto plates and ladle sausage mixture on top. Garnish and serve hot.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use turkey sausage.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach.
- This dish can be easily doubled for larger servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg