Sausage and veggie skillet
Sausage and veggie skillet is a simple, hearty dish that brings together savory sausage pieces with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables. Think tender slices of sausage mingling with crisp…
Tip: save now, cook later.Sausage and veggie skillet is a simple, hearty dish that brings together savory sausage pieces with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables. Think tender slices of sausage mingling with crisp peppers, onions, and zucchini, all cooked together in one pan for an easy, flavorful meal. It’s a great way to get a balanced, satisfying dinner on the table with minimal fuss.
I love making this skillet on busy weeknights when I want something quick but still comforting. The sausage adds a nice, meaty flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the veggies as they cook down. Sometimes I like to toss in a dash of my favorite herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top for a little extra something. It’s one of those dishes where you can really play around with whatever veggies you have in the fridge.
For serving, I often enjoy this straight from the skillet with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s also fantastic warmed up the next day for lunch. I find that everyone likes it because it’s simple, tasty, and feels like a real home-cooked meal without a lot of time in the kitchen. This skillet really reminds me of those cozy dinners where everyone gathers around, happy and full.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: This adds a lot of flavor with its smoky and savory notes. If you want a lighter option, try chicken or turkey sausage, or go vegetarian with a plant-based sausage.
Zucchini & Yellow Squash: Both give a nice texture and mild sweetness. If you don’t have these, try eggplant or green beans for a different twist.
Corn: Fresh corn provides sweetness and crunch, but frozen works just as well. You could also use canned corn if pressed for time, just drain it well.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add color and sweetness. Feel free to swap for orange or green peppers depending on what you like or have on hand.
Asparagus: This brings a bit of earthiness and crunch. If asparagus is out of season, green beans or snap peas are great stand-ins.
How Can I Cook the Sausage and Veggies So They Taste Great Together?
Start by browning the sausage in hot oil to get a nice crust—this boosts flavor. After removing it, cook the onions and garlic in the same pan to soak up those yummy sausage drippings.
- Add veggies with sturdier ones like peppers and corn first, then zucchini and squash last since they cook faster.
- Season well with smoked paprika and thyme; these spices bring warmth and complement sausage flavors.
- Cook veggies until tender but still a bit crisp, and aim for slight charring for extra taste.
- Return sausage to the pan just to heat through so it stays juicy and not overcooked.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large cast-iron skillet – perfect for even cooking and gets a great sear on the sausage and veggies.
- Sharp knife – makes chopping veggies and slicing sausage quick and easy.
- Cutting board – keeps your work area clean and safe while prepping ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – gentle on your skillet and great for stirring without scratching.
- Measuring spoons – handy for getting the spices just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap smoked sausage for spicy chorizo to add a smoky heat that livens up the dish.
- Add mushrooms for a meaty texture and earthiness that pairs well with the veggies.
- Throw in baby spinach or kale near the end for extra greens and nutrients.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella after cooking for a melty, comforting touch.
Sausage and Veggie Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup corn, cut from cob or frozen
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped into large chunks
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
Seasonings & Oils:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 5-7 minutes browning the sausage, 8-10 minutes cooking the veggies, plus a few more minutes to bring everything together before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Veggies:
Add the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, corn, and asparagus to the skillet. Sprinkle on the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the sausage back into the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm through. Turn off the heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture for better browning.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the veggies with what you have on hand, like green beans, mushrooms, or snap peas. Just adjust cooking times as needed to keep them tender-crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sausage and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the sausage and vegetables ahead and keep them refrigerated separately. When ready, combine and warm everything in a skillet for a quick meal.
