Polish-Style Potato, Onion & Smoked Sausage Skillet Bread

If you love hearty, rustic comfort food that feels like it came straight from a countryside kitchen, this Polish-Style Potato, Onion & Smoked Sausage Skillet Bread is about to become a new favorite. Made with tender potatoes, caramelized onions, smoky sausage, and baked into a golden skillet bread, this dish is deeply satisfying, simple to prepare, and packed with bold flavor.

Inspired by traditional Polish home cooking and classic Eastern European peasant dishes, this skillet bread combines the savory elements of potato pancakes and rustic farmhouse loaves into one irresistible meal.

Whether served for dinner, brunch, or as a side for soups and stews, this recipe delivers warmth and comfort in every bite.

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What Is Polish-Style Skillet Bread?

This dish takes inspiration from traditional Polish cuisine, especially rustic village-style cooking where potatoes, onions, and smoked meats are staple ingredients.

In Poland (Poland), hearty dishes featuring potatoes and sausage are common, especially in colder months. Recipes like:

• Pierogi (often filled with potato and cheese)
• Kielbasa (smoked sausage varieties)
• Placki ziemniaczane

have influenced this skillet bread concept.

While this isn’t a strict traditional recipe, it captures the same rustic spirit: simple ingredients, bold flavors, and satisfying texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan skillet meal
• Crispy golden edges
• Smoky, savory flavor
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for brunch, dinner, or potlucks
• Comfort food at its finest

If you enjoy dishes like loaded potato casseroles or savory breakfast bakes, this recipe hits similar notes—but with a European twist.

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Ingredients

For the Skillet Bread Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons melted butter or oil

For the Filling

• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced small
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 12 oz smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or farmer’s cheese
• Optional: chopped parsley

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Choosing the Right Sausage

For authentic flavor, use smoked kielbasa. Traditional Polish-style kielbasa has a garlicky, smoky profile that pairs beautifully with potatoes and onions.

If unavailable, you can substitute:

• Smoked sausage
• Andouille (for a spicier kick)
• Turkey kielbasa (lighter option)

The key is a firm, smoked sausage that browns well in a skillet.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a cast iron skillet (10–12 inches works best).

Cast iron creates that signature crispy crust.

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Step 2: Cook the Filling

1. Heat butter or oil in the skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Add onions and cook until softened and caramelized.
4. Stir in sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

This step builds the deep savory base flavor.

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Step 3: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl:

1. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter in a separate bowl.
3. Stir wet ingredients into dry until just combined.
4. Fold in shredded cheese.

The batter should be thick but spreadable.

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Step 4: Assemble

1. Spread half the batter into the skillet.
2. Evenly distribute the potato-onion-sausage mixture.
3. Top with remaining batter, spreading gently to cover.

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Step 5: Bake

Bake for 35–45 minutes until:

• Top is golden brown
• Center is set
• Toothpick inserted comes out clean

Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

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Texture and Flavor Profile

This skillet bread offers:

• Crisp outer crust
• Tender, savory interior
• Smoky sausage flavor
• Sweet caramelized onion notes
• Creamy melted cheese

It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

• Sour cream
• Whole grain mustard
• Fresh chopped herbs
• A crisp side salad

For a true Polish-inspired meal, pair with sauerkraut or a bowl of hearty cabbage soup.

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator

Store tightly covered for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Wrap slices individually and freeze up to 2 months.

Reheat

• Oven: 325°F for 10–15 minutes
• Skillet: Crisp slices in butter
• Microwave: 45–60 seconds

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Variations

1. Healthier Whole Wheat Version

Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour.

2. Maple-Glazed Sausage Twist

If you enjoy subtle sweetness in savory dishes, brush the sausage lightly with pure maple syrup before browning for contrast.

3. Spicy Version

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

4. Cheese Variations

Try:

• Swiss
• Smoked gouda
• Farmer’s cheese

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Make It a Complete Meal

This skillet bread works beautifully as:

• A brunch centerpiece
• A hearty dinner
• A side for soup
• A holiday potluck dish

It’s especially comforting during colder months when warming, carb-forward dishes are most satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 12 hours.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, but reduce milk slightly to avoid excess moisture.

What skillet works best?

Cast iron is ideal for even heat and crispy edges.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 28g

Values vary depending on sausage and cheese used.

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Why This Recipe Works

The success of this dish lies in layering textures:

• Crispy potatoes
• Soft onions
• Smoky sausage
• Tender bread base

It captures the rustic, hearty style associated with Eastern European farmhouse cooking while remaining easy for modern kitchens.

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Final Thoughts

Polish-Style Potato, Onion & Smoked Sausage Skillet Bread is the kind of dish that feels nostalgic, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and packed with bold comfort flavors.

If you’re building a recipe collection centered on cozy, family-style meals, this one fits beautifully alongside casseroles, skillet dinners, and hearty breads.

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