Sausage and Veggies Skillet Recipe

This Sausage and Veggies Skillet is the kind of hearty, vibrant one-pan wonder that manages to taste like pure comfort while making any weeknight feel just a little more special. Bursting with sweet corn, juicy sausage, tender-crisp zucchini, and bell pepper, all tossed in a whisper of chili powder and fresh cilantro, it’s the 30-minute dinner you’ll turn to again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Sausage and Veggies Skillet lies in its simplicity—each ingredient shines on its own, but together they’re a medley of savory, sweet, and just the right touch of spice. Every item on this list brings something special, whether a pop of color, a punch of protein, or a satisfying crunch.

• Corn kernels (2 cups, about 3 ears cooked): Sweet, juicy, and bursting with sunshine—fresh corn is a treat, but frozen or canned will work in a pinch.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): This not only keeps everything from sticking but infuses the veggies and sausage with a rich, subtle flavor.
• Sausage (12 oz, cooked—such as Cajun, Andouille, or smoked): The star of our skillet! Choose a sausage that brings the flavor: smoky, spicy, or sweet, depending on your mood.
• Red bell pepper (1 large, diced): Adds color, crunch, and a tiny bit of sweetness that balances the other flavors perfectly.
• Zucchini (1 large, sliced): Slices of zucchini soak up every bit of flavor and become deliciously tender.
• Chili powder (½ teaspoon): Just a dash adds warm, deep notes—not spicy, just extra cozy.
• Fresh cilantro (chopped): A handful of this herb at the end lifts the whole dish to something truly fresh and vibrant.

Variations

One of the best things about the Sausage and Veggies Skillet is how forgiving and flexible it is. Don’t be afraid to swap, add, or subtract based on what’s in your fridge or what your family loves—think of this more as a delicious guideline than a strict set of rules!

• Use Different Sausages: Chicken apple, spicy Italian, vegetarian sausage—any variety will work, and each brings its own twist.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, yellow squash, or even spinach can shine if you want to mix things up.
• Try Other Herbs or Spices: Fresh basil, oregano, a squeeze of lime juice, or a pinch of smoked paprika can easily change the flavor profile.
• Make it a Full Meal: Add cooked quinoa, rice, or beans to the skillet for even more substance and nutrition.

How to Make Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Start by heating your olive oil in a sturdy cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Slice the sausage into coins and lay them in the pan, letting each side get gorgeously golden and crispy—about 5 minutes on one side, and another 3 minutes after flipping. This bit of browning packs in flavor. Once done, move the sausage to a plate and, here’s a little secret: reserve some of the flavorful sausage oil for the veggies later. You’ll thank yourself!

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

With the skillet still hot, add in your diced red bell pepper. Let it get a little soft and just slightly caramelized—about 4 minutes will do. If the skillet looks dry, don’t hesitate to pour in a bit of that reserved sausage oil. Next, take out the bell pepper and toss your sliced zucchini into the pan. Give them around 3 minutes, enough to turn tender without getting mushy. Again, use the sausage oil for extra flavor if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn

While the veggies are cooking, grab your cooked ears of corn and carefully slice the kernels off the cob. Nothing beats the sweetness of fresh corn, but if you’re using frozen or canned, just measure out what you need for the perfect burst of sweetness in every bite.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

The final step is pure magic! In your skillet, combine the sausage, bell pepper, zucchini, and corn. Pour over any reserved oil for extra richness and toss everything together with the chili powder. Give it a minute or two to reheat on low, and then finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing, and the colors will make you smile!

How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped cilantro makes every bite pop with freshness, but you can also add thinly sliced green onions, a squeeze of lime, or even a little shredded parmesan for a creative finish. The beauty of this skillet is in its versatility—feel free to have fun with your favorite toppers!

Side Dishes

This dish can stand on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, think fluffy white rice, crusty artisan bread, or even a scoop of quinoa. Its flavors also love a zippy green salad or simple roasted potatoes on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve the Sausage and Veggies Skillet straight from the skillet at the table (less dishes is always a plus!). Or, for a brunchy twist, spoon over toasted bread or tuck into warm tortillas for a colorful and filling wrap. It’s also adorable portioned into little ramekins for meal prep lunches!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are a gift with this recipe! Simply let the Sausage and Veggies Skillet cool fully, then pack it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner even more delicious.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Sausage and Veggies Skillet, let it cool completely, then place portions in zip-top bags or airtight containers. It’ll keep well for up to two months! Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, just warm up your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave individual servings—just cover loosely to prevent drying out. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dash of chili powder to revive the flavors!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy, colorful way to bring more flavor (and fun!) to your dinner table, give this Sausage and Veggies Skillet a try. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable—sure to become a go-to favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

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