Grilled Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and satisfying blend of textures and flavors. Tender baby red potatoes, crisp green beans, and smoky slices of sausage come together effortlessly in foil packets that are grilled to perfection.

Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, camping trip, or just want a no-fuss weekday meal, these foil packets are the answer. Packed with savory seasoning and easy to customize with your favorite sausage or added veggies, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or just enjoying a cozy meal on the patio.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 pound small red potatoes, quartered

  • 1/2 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • Aluminum foil for wrapping

Directions:

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

  2. In a large bowl, combine sausage, potatoes, and green beans.

  3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

  4. Cut 4 large pieces of aluminum foil and evenly distribute the mixture in the center of each.

  5. Fold foil packets tightly, sealing all edges.

  6. Grill packets over indirect heat for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until potatoes are tender and sausage is browned.

  7. Carefully open packets (watch for steam) and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

A Hearty Classic: Grilled Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans

When it comes to wholesome, crowd-pleasing meals, few things compare to the rustic charm and savory satisfaction of grilled sausage with potatoes and green beans. This classic trio has stood the test of time for good reason, it’s flavorful, filling, and flexible. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a summer backyard BBQ, or looking for a fuss-free campfire meal, this dish has you covered.

A Nod to Simplicity and Tradition

This dish isn’t just convenient, it’s steeped in culinary heritage. Sausage and potatoes are a staple combination across many European and American kitchens, from German bratwurst dishes to Louisiana-style sausage boils. Green beans, fresh and slightly crisp, bring a welcome contrast in texture and a boost of earthy flavor, balancing out the richness of the sausage and the starchy comfort of the potatoes.

This recipe also taps into the heart of traditional one-pan cooking , a method that’s been used for centuries, long before modern ovens or stovetops were widely available. Whether roasted in a hearth, cooked in cast iron over open flames, or now sealed into foil packets on a gas or charcoal grill, these ingredients transform into something magical when combined with heat and seasoning.

Why This Dish Works So Well

There’s a reason this recipe is beloved by home cooks, campers, and busy families. It checks off all the boxes:

  • Minimal Prep – With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can have everything chopped and seasoned in under 15 minutes.

  • Flavorful – Smoked sausage naturally brings deep flavor, enhanced by garlic, onion, and paprika seasonings. The vegetables absorb the juices, making every bite delicious.

  • Balanced – You’ve got protein from the sausage, starch from the potatoes, and fiber from the green beans. It’s a complete meal with no need for extra sides unless you want them.

  • Customizable – This base recipe acts as a canvas. You can swap in different sausages, use sweet potatoes, or even add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots.

Sausage Choices: What Works Best?

The type of sausage you choose can dramatically impact the flavor profile of the final dish. Here are some popular options:

  • Smoked Sausage (like kielbasa or andouille): Adds rich, smoky depth and holds up well on the grill.

  • Italian Sausage: Comes in mild or spicy varieties and pairs wonderfully with garlic and herbs.

  • Bratwurst: A traditional German option that adds heartiness and classic flavor.

  • Chicken or Turkey Sausage: Lighter alternatives that reduce overall fat content without sacrificing taste.

Potato Tips and Tricks

Potatoes are the backbone of this meal. Their ability to soak up sausage drippings and seasoning makes them irresistible.

  • Red Potatoes are ideal for grilling because they hold their shape well and cook evenly.

  • Yukon Gold offers a buttery flavor and creamy texture.

  • Russet Potatoes can be used in a pinch but might break apart more easily if overcooked.

For best results, cut the potatoes into equal-sized chunks to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can parboil them for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the foil packets.

Green Beans: Freshness Counts

Fresh green beans are a must here. They bring a bright, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender sausage and soft potatoes.

To prepare, simply trim the ends and give them a quick rinse. There’s no need to precook them, as they’ll steam perfectly inside the foil packet. If you prefer softer green beans, you can blanch them briefly beforehand.

Foil Packet Magic

Foil packet cooking is a favorite method for good reason:

  • Seals in Flavor – Cooking the ingredients together in a sealed environment means nothing is lost to the grill, and every bite is infused with savory goodness.

  • Juicy and Tender – Steam generated in the packet keeps everything moist while still allowing for a nice grilled finish.

  • Zero Cleanup – Once you’re done, simply toss the foil. No pots or pans needed.

To avoid tearing, use heavy-duty foil or double up on layers. Always seal the edges well to lock in heat and juices. Flip the packets halfway through grilling to promote even cooking.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some tasty twists to inspire you:

  • Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving adds creamy richness.

  • Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.

  • Garlic Butter Drizzle: Melted butter infused with garlic and parsley makes a delicious finishing touch.

  • Veggie Boost: Include bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.

  • Fresh Herbs: Toss in thyme, rosemary, or dill for added aroma and flavor.

Nutrition Breakdown

A single serving of this dish provides a satisfying balance of macronutrients:

  • Protein: From the sausage, this dish helps maintain muscle health and keeps you full.

  • Carbohydrates: Potatoes provide a great source of energy and dietary fiber.

  • Vitamins & Minerals: Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus folate and iron.

  • Fats: Depending on the sausage, fat content can be high, so leaner options are a good choice for those watching their intake.

To make the dish lighter, opt for low-fat sausage or reduce the amount of olive oil used.

Serving Suggestions

While this recipe is complete on its own, it pairs well with:

  • A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette

  • Warm, crusty bread or cornbread

  • A cold, crisp beer or sparkling water with lemon

  • Grilled corn on the cob or a refreshing cucumber salad

This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or meal prepping ahead for a busy week.

Conclusion

Grilled Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans is more than just a meal, it’s a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and nourishment. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weekday or enjoying the great outdoors, this recipe delivers every time. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s a dependable favorite that always hits the spot.

So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delicious comfort food classic that satisfies on every level. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to recipe for so many home cooks across the world.

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