Creamy Sausage And Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Sausage And Potatoes
Creamy Sausage and Potatoes is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This hearty meal combines the rich flavors of ground beef with tender potatoes, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Sausage And Potatoes Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy comforting meals that filled our home with savory aromas. One of my fondest memories is when my grandmother would make her version of Creamy Sausage and Potatoes. The way she effortlessly combined simple ingredients into a delicious dish inspired me to create my own version of this classic recipe. Today, I’m excited to share this comforting meal with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your table as it did to mine.
What Makes This Creamy Sausage And Potatoes Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the heartiness of its ingredients. The combination of ground beef and potatoes creates a filling meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Additionally, the creamy sauce is easy to prepare, making this dish perfect for cooks of any skill level. You can enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it at a gathering with friends and family.
The Full Creamy Sausage And Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. quality ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 to 4 ½ cups potatoes, diced into ½ inch chunks (peeling is optional)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break up the beef into smaller pieces for even cooking.
- Add Water: Once browned, add enough water to cover the meat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Do not drain the liquid, as this will help flavor the potatoes.
- Prepare the Potatoes: While the beef is cooking, dice the potatoes. A handy tool like a Vidalia Chop Wizard can make this quick and easy! Aim for uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This step is crucial for achieving a lump-free sauce.
- Combine Everything: Pour the milk mixture into the skillet with the beef and potatoes. Cook on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Once thickened, remove from heat and top with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Sausage And Potatoes
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For added flavor, consider including your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or garlic powder. You can also experiment with different types of potatoes; for example, red potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes can add a different texture and flavor profile. If you’re looking for a little heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix for a spicy kick!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Sausage And Potatoes
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to help restore the creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Creamy Sausage And Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb quality ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4.5 cups potatoes, diced (peeling is optional)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned, stirring occasionally.
- Once browned, add enough water to cover the meat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Do not drain the liquid!
- While the beef is cooking, dice the potatoes.
- Add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth.
- Pour the milk mixture into the skillet with the beef and potatoes. Cook on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and top with fresh parsley if desired. Serve and enjoy!