Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
This Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of fresh vegetables and protein. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, this recipe showcases colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet corn, all cooked in one pan. You’ll enjoy the convenience and taste, making it an excellent choice for families or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this meal is perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sausage, bell peppers, and spices creates a savory experience that everyone will love.
- Versatile Options: Use whatever sausage you have on hand—cajun, smoked, or even chicken sausage works great!
- Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this skillet meal balances nutrition with flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Sausage and Veggies Skillet seamlessly, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping of ingredients while cooking.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your veggies, making prep faster and safer.
Ingredients
For the Sausage
- 12 oz sausage (cooked, such as cajun sausage, andouille sausage, or smoked sausage)
For the Vegetables
- 1 large red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 large zucchini (large, sliced)
- 2 cups corn kernels (3 ears completely cooked)
For Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
How to Make Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing all your vegetables. Dice the red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces and slice the zucchini into rounds. If using fresh corn on the cob, ensure it’s fully cooked before cutting off the kernels.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let it warm up for about a minute until shimmering but not smoking.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
Add the cooked sausage. Sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized on the edges.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and corn kernels. Mix them well with the sausage.
Step 5: Season It Up
Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon chili powder. Stir everything together to ensure even seasoning. Cook for another 7-10 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked to your liking, remove from heat. Top with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside rice or bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Sausage and Veggies Skillet!
How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
This vibrant sausage and veggies skillet is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit your taste preferences and dining occasions.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Adding a bed of cooked rice or quinoa enhances the meal’s heartiness and absorbs the flavorful juices.
In Tacos
- Spoon the skillet mixture into soft or hard taco shells for a fun twist on a classic dish. Top with fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Over Greens
- Serve the sausage and veggies over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a lighter option. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for extra zest.
As a Breakfast Hash
- Transform leftovers into a breakfast hash by frying them up in a skillet with an egg on top. This hearty breakfast will keep you energized all morning.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the dish with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s perfect for dipping!
In a Wrap
- Roll the mixture in a whole wheat wrap for an easy, on-the-go lunch option that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
How to Perfect Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
To make this skillet meal even better, consider these handy tips for perfection every time you cook.
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Choose Quality Sausage: Using high-quality sausage enhances the overall flavor. Look for options like cajun or smoked sausage for a richer taste.
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Cut Veggies Uniformly: Ensuring your vegetables are cut evenly promotes even cooking, so everything is tender at the same time.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches if necessary allows ingredients to brown properly, adding depth to the flavor.
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Season Well: Don’t shy away from seasoning! A pinch of salt or additional spices can elevate your dish significantly.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro just before serving brightens flavors and adds freshness to this hearty meal.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Complement your sausage and veggies skillet with these delightful side dishes that balance flavors wonderfully.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs nicely with the savory notes of the skillet dish.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, contrasting beautifully with the warm skillet.
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Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a crispy texture that complements the softness of the veggies.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers health benefits and an appealing green color on your plate.
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors well while keeping your meal light and healthy.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the sausage.
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Cornbread: Sweet cornbread serves as a delightful counterpoint to savory dishes like this one-pan meal.
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Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled vegetables brings tanginess that cuts through rich flavors, enhancing every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Sausage and Veggies Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that might affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using raw sausage – Make sure your sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the skillet. This ensures even cooking and safe consumption.
- Overcrowding the pan – If you add too many ingredients at once, they may steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
- Neglecting seasoning – Don’t skip on seasoning! Adding salt, pepper, and spices enhances the flavors of your veggies and sausage.
- Ignoring cook times – Each vegetable has a different cooking time. Add them to the skillet in stages for optimal texture and flavor.
- Not using enough oil – A good amount of olive oil helps prevent sticking and allows the veggies to caramelize beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I customize my Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
You can add other vegetables like broccoli or carrots based on your preference. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage too!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything in advance, store it in the fridge, and just reheat when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
This meal pairs well with rice or quinoa as a side dish. You can also enjoy it with warm bread.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Sausage and Veggies Skillet is perfect for meal prep. It holds well in the fridge and reheats nicely.
Final Thoughts
The Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is not only quick but also versatile. With vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it appeals to everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of our Sausage and Veggies Skillet – a quick and delicious one-pan meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. This colorful dish features succulent sausage paired with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet corn, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. Ideal for families or gatherings, this nutritious skillet is both satisfying and versatile. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or enjoy it on its own for a delightful dining experience.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cooked sausage (cajun, smoked, or andouille)
- 1 large red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 large zucchini (sliced)
- 2 cups corn kernels (cooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Wash and chop the bell pepper and zucchini. If using fresh corn, ensure it's cooked.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the cooked sausage to the skillet, sauté for 5 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, and corn; mix well.
- Sprinkle with chili powder and continue cooking for another 7-10 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
