Smothered Green Beans with Sausage and Potatoes: A Hearty Southern Classic

Discover a comforting dish that marries the crunch of fresh green beans with the hearty goodness of red potatoes and the savory richness of smoked sausage. Our smothered green beans with sausage and potatoes recipe is perfect whether you’re enjoying a main course or a versatile side dish. Every step is designed to be simple enough for any cook while capturing the essence of Southern flavor.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 350 per serving

Key Benefits: Enhancing Your Smothered Green Beans and Potatoes Experience

Smothered Green Beans & Green Beans and Potatoes for a Balanced Meal

This dish combines the crispness of smothered green beans with the hearty texture of green beans and potatoes to create a well-rounded, nutrient-rich plate.

Sausage: The Essential Protein for a Satisfying Side Dish

The inclusion of sausage not only boosts the protein but also elevates this side dish to a memorable experience. It’s a hit among fans of classic side dish recipes.

Reader Interactions Inspire Every Cook

We value reader interactions and encourage feedback. Every time you cook this dish, you help refine our approach to a perfect smothered green beans and potatoes experience.

Ingredients: The Essential Building Blocks of a Delicious smothered green beans with sausage and potatoes

Skillet-Ready Ingredients for a Perfect Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe

• 1 lb fresh green beans
  Ideal for when you make green beans with a crisp bite.
• 1 lb red potatoes
  Halved until potatoes are tender, these create the heart of the green beans and potatoes recipe.
• 1 lb smoked sausage
  Slice the sausage for a robust flavor. For variety, try turkey or andouille.
• 1 large onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: 3-4 slices bacon
  Adding bacon provides extra cajun smothered green beans flavor and a touch of brown crispiness.

A Green Bean Recipe That’s Ready to Transform Any Meal

Every ingredient is selected to ensure that whether you make green beans for a quick dinner or an elaborate celebration, you’re set for a dish that truly delights.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Make Green Beans and Potatoes Perfection

Brown to Perfection: The Key to a Great Smothered Green Bean Recipe

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
   Wash and trim the fresh green beans. Halve the red potatoes so they’re uniformly tender. Slice the smoked sausage, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. This prep work ensures all components are set to cook evenly.
2. Sauté Aromatics in Your Skillet:
   In a skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and aromatic. For an extra layer of richness, add the bacon early so it can brown and impart a smoky flavor.
3. Cook the Sausage:
   Add the sliced sausage and continue to cook until it achieves a deep brown. This step is crucial in our smothered green bean recipe to extract the savory juices.

Discover the Ultimate Green Bean Recipe: How to Make Green Beans and Potatoes

4. Combine the Vegetables:
   Stir in the fresh green beans and red potatoes. Mix thoroughly so every piece is coated with the flavors from the sausage, bacon, and aromatics.
5. Simmer with Broth and Seasoning:
   Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning along with salt and black pepper. Allow the dish to come to a simmer until the green beans and potatoes meld together into a hearty, flavorful mixture.
6. Finish and Serve:
   Once the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. If you have any leftover portions, they’re perfect to reheat later, ensuring every serving is as delightful as the first.

Discover even more comfort food inspiration by checking out our detailed guide on Smothered Potatoes: How to Make Them Perfect for additional tips and delicious side dish ideas.

Pro Tips and Variations: Creative Ways to Make smothered green beans with sausage and potatoes

Leftover Magic: How to Reheat Delicious Green Beans and Potatoes

For those times when you have extra servings, store your dish in an airtight container. When ready, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave to enjoy delicious green beans and potatoes all over again.

Delicious Side Innovations: Make This Recipe Your Own

Experiment with additional spices or swap the sausage for another protein. Whether you’re creating a traditional skillet dish or transforming it into a hearty casserole, you can truly make green beans and potatoes your signature dish.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoying a Delicious Side or Main Course

Elevate Your Plate with a Casserole Twist

For a unique presentation, consider layering your dish in a baking pan to form a savory casserole. This variation adds a new dimension to the green beans and potatoes recipe.

Expert Advice: How to Make Green Beans and Potatoes Every Time

Serve your creation as a robust main or as a delicious side paired with a fresh salad or cornbread. Each serving of smothered green beans with sausage and potatoes is designed to delight, whether enjoyed fresh or as a quick reheat from leftover.

Learn the art of sausage preparation: Check out this comprehensive guide on cooking sausage at Food Network’s Sausage Guide.

Smothered Green Beans with Sausage and Potatoes

Enjoy this hearty, comforting one‐pot Southern dish featuring fresh green beans, tender potatoes, and savory smoked sausage.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Southern

Servings 4 people

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Large Skillet (Cast Iron recommended) For even heating and rustic flavor
• 1 Cutting Board For chopping vegetables and sausage
• 1 Chef's knife For slicing and dicing ingredients
• 1 Measuring Cup For liquid measurement

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
• 1 lb small potatoes halved or quartered
• 1 lb smoked sausage andouille or kielbasa [Notes: sliced]
• 1 large onion finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup chicken broth can substitute with vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

 

Prepare Your Ingredients.

• Gather all ingredients and prepare them as described. Ensure that the green beans are trimmed, potatoes are halved, and sausage is sliced.
  1 lb fresh green beans, 1 lb small potatoes, 1 lb smoked sausage, 1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 cup chicken broth, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, Salt, Pepper
  

Sauté the Aromatics.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
  1 large onion, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic

Brown the Sausage.

• Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned, releasing a savory aroma.
  1 lb smoked sausage
  

Add Vegetables.

• Stir in the halved potatoes and fresh green beans. Mix gently to combine the flavors.
  1 lb small potatoes, 1 lb fresh green beans
  

Simmer the Dish.

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  1 cup chicken broth, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, Salt, 1/2 cup diced bell peppers

Final Touches.

• Remove the lid to allow the broth to reduce slightly. Stir gently and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
  1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  

Notes

• This dish is a perfect blend of savory and hearty flavors. Customize by swapping smoked sausage for a leaner alternative or adding your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this comforting Southern meal any day of the week.

Keyword one-pot meal, easy weeknight dinner, smothered green beans with sausage and potatoes, southern comfort food

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which cooks faster, potatoes or green beans?

In our green beans and potatoes recipe, green beans tend to soften quicker, while you should check that the potatoes are done by monitoring the minutes until the potatoes finish their simmer. Once the potatoes are cooked, you’ll notice the perfect flavor and texture—we usually cook for 1 extra minute if needed, resulting in delicious green beans and potatoes.

What sides go well with sausage and potatoes?

Our side dish recipes suggest pairing robust flavors like sausage and onion with a fresh salad. You can also add the bacon to enhance the savory notes, making it a truly delicious side option. Whether you choose turkey sausage or decide to use andouille sausage, this dish can even be transformed into a casserole so you can make green beans and potatoes to suit your taste.

Can green beans and potatoes be canned together?

While some cooks prefer to use canned green beans, others opt for frozen beans for better texture. In many versions of this dish, combining potatoes and the beans works well—but if you’re not using fresh produce, you might also use frozen green beans to achieve similar results.

How do I ensure the sausage is perfectly prepared?

To get optimal results, always cook the sausage in a large skillet until it is evenly browned. If you decide to include bacon in the process, cook for 1-2 minutes to render its fat before adding the sausage. For an extra depth of flavor, pour a cup of the chicken broth into the pot during cooking.

What if I’m making the dish for the first time?

If you’re preparing this recipe for the first time, don’t worry—our clear instructions and reader interactions ensure you’ll have a smooth experience. We’ve designed these delicious recipes to include everything you need so that it’s easy and delicious to follow along.

How can I enhance the dish’s overall flavor?

A little extra can go a long way—a small amount of additional bacon adds a unique note because bacon adds a smoky richness. You can also create a quick roux to thicken the sauce, and if necessary, add it back into the pot to boost the final flavor to the dish.

Can I customize the recipe to my liking?

Absolutely! Many cooks love green beans for their versatility. Feel free to experiment—simply add the green beans at different stages if you like extra crunch, and you can even add the green beans a second time if you desire. This approach is part of the best smothered green strategy to personalize your meal.

How should I handle leftovers?

After your dish is complete, allow it to cool and then set it aside before transferring any leftover portions into an airtight container. This method ensures that, even after months in an airtight storage, your dish maintains its quality when you decide to reheat it.

Are there any protein alternatives I can try?

For those seeking variety, swapping out the standard sausage for another protein is an option. You might try a variation where you make the roux in a dutch oven over medium heat, allowing the dish to simmer for 1 to 1 ½ hours for deeper flavor.

How should I mix the ingredients during cooking?

It’s essential to stir to combine all components thoroughly. This process prevents any unwanted flour taste from lingering, which is why it’s become one of our most popular techniques. Begin by adding a cup of the chicken broth gradually to blend the ingredients perfectly.

What is the best storage method for leftovers?

Store any leftover portions in an airtight container—they can remain fresh for months in an airtight setting. This method is ideal, especially if you plan to reheat your dish later for another serving of comfort.

What is the best way to make this dish overall?

The best way to make this dish is to follow the detailed instructions, as it is super easy to make and includes everything you need. If you find that you need to thicken the sauce, simply simmer a bit longer, and if necessary, add it back for enhanced consistency.