Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
This easy Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet corn, this colorful dish not only delights the taste buds but also presents beautifully on any table. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, it combines convenience and flavor in just 30 minutes of cooking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- One-Pan Wonder: All ingredients cook together in one pan, making clean-up a breeze.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sausage and fresh veggies brings a savory and satisfying taste to each bite.
- Versatile Meal: This dish can be served as a main course or paired with rice or bread.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with vegetables and protein, it offers a balanced meal option.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having everything ready makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: This is essential for sautéing all ingredients evenly while developing rich flavors.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient cutting of ingredients.
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 the Ingredients
Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Wash the vegetables thoroughly.
1. Dice the red bell pepper.
2. Slice the zucchini into rounds.
3. If using fresh corn, remove kernels from the cob.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Allow the oil to heat up for about 1 minute.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
Add your choice of cooked sausage to the skillet:
1. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Once the sausage is browned:
1. Add diced bell pepper and sliced zucchini.
2. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder.
3. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until veggies are tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Finally:
1. Stir in corn kernels and cook until heated through (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Serving the Sausage and Veggies Skillet is as easy as it is delicious. This vibrant dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
With a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the sausage.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the dish nicely while providing a crunchy texture.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Brown Rice: Serving it over brown rice adds whole grains and enhances the meal’s fiber content.
- Quinoa: This protein-packed option makes a hearty base for your skillet meal.
In Tacos
- Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill tortillas with the sausage and veggies for a fun twist. Top with fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with this colorful skillet mix.
With Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Adding slices of creamy avocado on top enhances the dish’s richness.
- Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole brings zest and creaminess to each bite.
How to Perfect Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
To make your Sausage and Veggies Skillet even better, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will elevate your dish and ensure great results.
- Boldly Season Your Sausage: Use spices like paprika or garlic powder to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Chop Veggies Evenly: Cutting vegetables into similar sizes ensures they cook evenly in the pan.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that desirable golden-brown color on your sausage.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Pairing your Sausage and Veggies Skillet with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the skillet.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add crunch and heartiness to your dinner plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to this hearty meal.
- Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side adds texture and freshness alongside the warm skillet dish.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with savory flavors, making for a comforting addition.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, zucchini noodles offer a light base that absorbs flavors well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.
- Using raw sausage: Always use pre-cooked sausage to save time. Raw sausage needs more cooking time and can alter the dish’s timing.
- Overcrowding the pan: Avoid placing too many ingredients in the skillet. This can lead to steaming instead of browning, affecting flavor.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to add spices like chili powder. Proper seasoning enhances the dish’s overall taste.
- Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cut veggies into similar sizes for even cooking. Uneven pieces can result in some being overcooked while others remain crisp.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the skillet meal to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together better.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best if used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with any cooked sausage you prefer, like chicken or turkey sausage.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Sausage and Veggies Skillet is perfect for meal prep and can be stored easily.
How can I customize this skillet meal?
You can add or swap vegetables based on your preferences, such as broccoli or carrots, to make it your own!
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair this skillet with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or sausage types. It’s a colorful dinner that your family will love—perfect for busy weeknights!
Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of this Sausage and Veggies Skillet, a quick and nutritious one-pan meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes! Bursting with colorful bell peppers, tender zucchini, and sweet corn, this dish combines savory sausage with fresh vegetables to create a delightful dinner option for busy weeknights. Perfect for family meals or meal prep, it’s both delicious and visually appealing. Just sauté everything in a single skillet for an effortless clean-up!
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (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)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients: dice the bell pepper, slice the zucchini, and remove corn kernels from the cob if fresh.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute.
- Add sausage to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Incorporate the bell pepper and zucchini; sprinkle with chili powder. Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Stir in corn kernels and heat through for another 2–3 minutes. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
