Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy dish that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. This one-pan wonder combines juicy, savory sausage with a medley of colorful vegetables, all sautéed to perfection. It’s a versatile and customizable recipe, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious, filling, and nutritious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can use any variety of sausage, from spicy Italian to smoked or chicken sausage, and pair it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. The dish is a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meals while still delivering the rich, comforting flavors of sausage. Whether you serve it on its own, over rice, or with pasta, this Sausage and Veggies Skillet is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.

One-pan meals like this have always been a lifesaver in my kitchen. They minimize cleanup and maximize flavor, especially when the ingredients cook together and share their juices. I often make this dish when I’m short on time or looking to clean out my fridge, and it never fails to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Veggies Skillet

1. Quick and Easy: You can have this meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
2. One-Pan Dish: Fewer dishes to wash means less cleanup and more time to relax.
3. Nutritious: This dish is packed with protein from the sausage and fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the vegetables.
4. Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite sausage and vegetables, making this recipe versatile and adaptable.
5. Great for Leftovers: This skillet meal reheats well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers the next day.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6
• Serving Size: Approximately 1 ½ cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbs: 18g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sausage and Veggies Skillet:

For the Skillet:

• 1 lb sausage (Italian, smoked, or chicken sausage), sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

• Cherry tomatoes, for added freshness
• Broccoli florets, for extra greens
• Sweet potatoes, diced for a heartier dish
• Spinach or kale, for a boost of nutrients
• Grated Parmesan, for a cheesy finish
• Avocado slices, for creaminess
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Sausage:

Start by slicing the sausage into ¼-inch rounds. You can use any type of sausage you like—spicy Italian sausage for a kick, smoked sausage for a deep, rich flavor, or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

2. Chop the Vegetables:

Next, slice the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion into even pieces. Mince the garlic and set it aside. You can also chop additional vegetables like broccoli, tomatoes, or sweet potatoes if you’re using them.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat the Oil:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the sausage to prevent sticking.

2. Sauté the Sausage:

Add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. The sausage will release its juices, adding flavor to the oil and vegetables.

3. Remove the Sausage:

Once the sausage is browned, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Leave the oil and any sausage drippings in the skillet for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Cook the vegetables for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize.

2. Add the Garlic and Seasoning:

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. The spices will coat the vegetables and enhance their flavor.

3. Adjust for Additional Vegetables:

If you’re adding more vegetables like broccoli or sweet potatoes, adjust the cooking time as needed. Denser vegetables like sweet potatoes will need a bit more time to cook, while leafy greens like spinach can be added at the very end, allowing them to wilt gently in the skillet.

Step 4: Combine the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Return the Sausage to the Skillet:

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just to heat the sausage through and allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with Fresh Parsley:

Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the richness of the sausage.

2. Serve with Lemon Wedges:

For an extra layer of flavor, serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the sausage and veggies adds a tangy brightness that balances the savory flavors.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Serve your Sausage and Veggies Skillet hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice, quinoa, or pasta for a more filling meal. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, but it’s also a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

How to Serve

• On Its Own: This skillet dish is hearty enough to be served on its own as a main course, packed with protein and vegetables.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the sausage and veggies over cooked rice, quinoa, or even farro for a complete meal with a satisfying grain.
• With Pasta: Toss the sausage and vegetables with your favorite pasta and a drizzle of olive oil for a quick and easy pasta dinner.
• In a Wrap or Pita: Stuff the sausage and veggies into a warm pita bread or wrap for a portable, flavorful lunch or dinner.
• With Eggs: Add a fried or poached egg on top for a hearty breakfast or brunch option. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor to the dish.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use High Heat for Searing: When browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables, use medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear and caramelization. This brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds depth of flavor to the dish.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If your skillet is too small to fit all the sausage and vegetables at once, cook them in batches. Overcrowding the skillet can cause the ingredients to steam rather than sauté, which prevents them from getting that nice golden-brown color.
3. Use Pre-Cooked Sausage for Convenience: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausage. Just slice it and add it to the skillet to heat through. This saves time and makes the dish even quicker to prepare.
4. Add Greens Last: If you’re adding spinach, kale, or other leafy greens, stir them into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. They will wilt quickly in the heat and retain their bright color and texture.
5. Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover veggies from the fridge. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, broccoli, and even mushrooms work well in this skillet.

Recipe Variations

This Sausage and Veggies Skillet is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Spicy Sausage and Veggies Skillet:

For a spicy kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes and a dash of hot sauce. You can also toss in sliced jalapeños or chili peppers to amp up the heat.

2. Sausage and Sweet Potato Skillet:

For a heartier, slightly sweet version, add diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Sauté the sweet potatoes until they’re golden and tender before adding the rest of the vegetables. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.

3. Sausage and Broccoli Skillet:

Add broccoli florets for an extra serving of greens. Broccoli adds a nice texture and soaks up the flavors of the sausage and seasonings. You can blanch the broccoli before adding it to the skillet for a more vibrant green color.

4. Cajun Sausage and Veggies Skillet:

Give this dish a Southern twist by using Cajun sausage and seasoning the vegetables with Cajun spices. The bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, along with smoked sausage, make for a delicious and spicy dish.

5. Mediterranean Sausage and Veggies Skillet:

For a Mediterranean-inspired version, use chicken sausage and add cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and artichoke hearts. Garnish with crumbled feta and serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

6. Sausage, Kale, and White Bean Skillet:

Add cannellini beans or chickpeas to the skillet along with chopped kale for a hearty, protein-packed meal. The beans add creaminess, while the kale adds texture and nutrients.

7. Vegan Sausage and Veggies Skillet:

For a plant-based version, swap the regular sausage for your favorite vegan sausage or plant-based protein. Many vegan sausages are packed with flavor and cook up beautifully in the skillet.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover Sausage and Veggies Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If reheating in a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the dish from drying out.

Freezing:

This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the sausage and vegetables to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan to ensure even cooking and enough space for all the sausage and vegetables.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sausage and vegetables as they cook.
• Tongs: For flipping the sausage and handling the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain the vegetables before adding them to the skillet. Frozen vegetables may release more moisture, so you may need to cook them a bit longer to achieve the desired texture.

2. Can I use ground sausage instead of links?

Absolutely! Ground sausage works just as well in this recipe. Simply brown the ground sausage in the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks, then proceed with sautéing the vegetables as directed.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prepping. You can make the sausage and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to eat.

4. What other seasonings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of soy sauce can add unique flavors to the dish. Tailor the spices to match the type of sausage you’re using.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage. Always check the labels on the sausage to ensure there are no added gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a quick, easy, and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its mix of savory sausage and colorful, crisp-tender vegetables, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this versatile recipe can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious dish as much as I do! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables, spices, and sausage varieties to make it your own. It’s a foolproof, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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