Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
This Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is a delightful way to enjoy a colorful and hearty dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish combines savory sausage with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also brings vibrant flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pan while savoring a nutritious meal that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sausage and vibrant veggies creates a delicious medley that’s sure to please.
- Versatile Meal: Adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference in your preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet ensures even cooking and ample space for all ingredients.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies quickly and efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts, making prep work faster.
Ingredients
For the Skillet
- 2 cup corn kernels (3 ears completely cooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz sausage (cooked, such as cajun sausage, andouille sausage, or smoked sausage)
- 1 large red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 large zucchini (large, sliced)
- 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
Begin by prepping all your ingredients:
1. Dice the red bell pepper.
2. Slice the zucchini.
3. If not using pre-cooked corn, boil three ears of corn until tender before removing the kernels.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
- Heat your large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
- Once the oil is hot, add the cooked sausage slices to the skillet.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are browned slightly.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
- Stir in the diced red bell pepper and sliced zucchini.
- Cook for another 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Mix in Corn and Spices
- Add the corn kernels to the mixture.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon chili powder.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Finish with Cilantro
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Sausage and Veggies Skillet – a perfect blend of flavors that’s ready in no time!
How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Serving your sausage and veggies skillet is a delightful experience that brings out its vibrant flavors. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also versatile when it comes to serving.
With Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Parsley: Use fresh parsley as an alternative for added freshness.
On a Bed of Rice
- White rice: Serve the skillet over fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious juices.
- Brown rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice which adds nuttiness and fiber.
As a Wrap
- Tortilla wraps: Fill a warm tortilla with the sausage and veggies for an easy-to-eat meal.
- Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the filling.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty baguette: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the skillet.
- Garlic bread: Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful side that complements the dish.
How to Perfect Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
To achieve the best results with your sausage and veggies skillet, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and ease of preparation.
- Choose quality sausage: Opt for high-quality sausage like cajun or andouille for richer flavor.
- Prep ingredients ahead: Chop vegetables in advance to save time during cooking.
- Use one pan wisely: Utilize a large skillet to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming the veggies.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Pairing side dishes with your sausage and veggies skillet can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a comforting side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon dressing complements the savory skillet nicely.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a tangy contrast to the rich sausage flavors.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with the spices in the skillet dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance and flavor balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Sausage and Veggies Skillet, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious meal.
- Ingredient Choices: Using low-quality or expired ingredients can ruin the dish. Always check the freshness of your sausage and veggies.
- Ignoring Prep Time: Skipping the prep time can lead to overcooking or undercooking. Make sure to chop your vegetables before starting to cook for even results.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Filling the pan too much can cause steaming instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that nice caramelization.
- Forgetting Seasoning: Not seasoning properly can make your dish bland. Taste as you cook and adjust spices, including salt and pepper, for the best flavor.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add a bright flavor. Don’t skip them; add them just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sausage and Veggies Skillet in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This meal can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Sausage and Veggies Skillet.
Can I use different types of sausage in this skillet?
Yes! You can use any cooked sausage you prefer, such as chicken sausage or kielbasa, to customize the flavor.
How do I make this Sausage and Veggies Skillet healthier?
You can substitute turkey or chicken sausage and add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrients.
Can I prepare this Sausage and Veggies Skillet in advance?
Absolutely! You can chop your vegetables and cook the sausage ahead of time. Just combine them when ready to eat.
What other veggies work well in a Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
Feel free to experiment with vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or green beans based on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is perfect for busy weeknights with its quick prep time and colorful ingredients. The recipe is versatile; feel free to mix different sausages or seasonal veggies for unique flavors every time. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is!
Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of our Sausage and Veggies Skillet – a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights! In just 30 minutes, you can create a colorful dish featuring savory sausage combined with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet corn. This delightful skillet is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep. With its versatility, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Enjoy this satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste!
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (or 3 ears cooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz cooked sausage (cajun, andouille, or smoked)
- 1 large red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 large zucchini (sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by dicing the bell pepper and slicing the zucchini. If using fresh corn, boil the ears until tender before removing the kernels.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add the cooked sausage slices to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly browned.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and sliced zucchini; cook for another 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Mix in the corn kernels and sprinkle with chili powder; stir to combine evenly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
