If you’re searching for a dish that dazzles with color, flavor, and unbeatable simplicity, One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet just might become your new go-to dinner. This is a weeknight hero: savory rounds of smoked sausage mingle with a rainbow of crisp-tender vegetables, all kissed with Italian seasoning and a hint of garlic. It comes together in a single skillet, cutting down on dishes without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. Whether you’re after bold taste in a flash or looking for a way to jazz up your veggie intake, this hearty, wholesome skillet delivers the goods every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet is in how each ingredient brings something wonderful to the table. With just a handful of vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and smoky sausage, you’ll create a meal that’s much greater than the sum of its parts. These are the simple, versatile staples that make this recipe a true staple in any busy kitchen.
- Smoked sausage: Use your favorite variety for deep, savory flavor and hearty bites in every forkful.
- Red bell pepper: Adds bright color and subtle sweetness to balance the savory sausage.
- Yellow bell pepper: Brings cheerful color and a slightly milder flavor that rounds out the dish.
- Zucchini: Offers tender texture and soaks up the spices beautifully.
- Yellow squash: Slightly sweet and buttery, pairing wonderfully with zucchini for a summery vibe.
- Red onion: Adds a mellow, savory bite and a splash of vibrant purple.
- Baby carrots: When halved, they cook quickly and add a pop of color plus a lovely sweetness.
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and making sure everything cooks up golden and luscious.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the skillet with subtle garlicky aroma in every single bite.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that ties all the flavors together with cozy warmth.
- Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and a warm reddish hue to the skillet.
- Salt and pepper: Absolutely necessary for balancing and highlighting all the flavors you’ve packed in.
- Fresh parsley (optional): The perfect finishing touch for a pop of bright green and freshness.
How to Make One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by preheating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add just 1 tablespoon of olive oil to get things going, and then scatter in your sliced smoked sausage. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each round is deliciously caramelized and browned on the edges. This step unlocks so much flavor and creates those irresistible crispy bits. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, drizzle in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in those beautiful chopped vegetables: both bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, and the halved baby carrots. Stir everything together and let the veggies cook for 8–10 minutes, making sure to stir every so often so they become tender-crisp but still keep their color and bite. The goal is vibrant, not mushy!
Step 3: Season and Combine
Once your vegetables have softened just right, return the golden sausage slices to the pan. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the flavors mingle and the skillet cook for another 2–3 minutes to ensure everything is piping hot and beautifully seasoned.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
If you love a splash of freshness, shower the finished skillet with a little chopped fresh parsley right before serving. It’s a simple step, but it makes each bite pop and brings a hint of brightness that’s truly worth it. Grab your plates, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley livens up the whole skillet, and for an extra-special touch, you could add a shower of grated Parmesan cheese. A squeeze of lemon is another great way to wake up the flavors, especially if you like a bit of zing to balance the richness of the sausage.
Side Dishes
One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet is hearty enough to stand alone, but it’s also lovely alongside a scoop of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a warm hunk of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. For lighter fare, serve it with a simple green salad to keep things fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring the skillet straight to the dinner table for a rustic, family-style meal; let everyone help themselves for a relaxed vibe. Or, pile the sausage and veggies onto toasted hoagie rolls and top with melted cheese for unforgettable sandwiches. Want a wholesome lunch? Spoon leftovers into meal prep containers over quinoa or brown rice for quick, satisfying midweek meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet quickly and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually get even better as they mingle in the fridge.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that veggies like zucchini and squash may soften a bit more upon thawing, but the flavors will still be satisfying.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen things up. Alternatively, you can use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to make sure everything heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage if you like. If you’re craving a spicy kick, andouille or another hot sausage works beautifully. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked so assembly is a breeze.
What other vegetables work well in this dish?
This skillet is endlessly flexible. Broccoli florets, green beans, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are all fantastic swaps. Just keep cooking times in mind so everything turns out perfectly tender-crisp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as your sausage is certified gluten-free. Always check the label on processed meats if you’re cooking for someone with a gluten allergy.
Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely. Slice the sausage and chop all your veggies in the morning or even the night before. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge, and you’ll have everything ready for an ultra-fast dinner assembly.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Making it spicy is simple! Use a hot variety of sausage or stir in some red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce when seasoning the skillet. Adjust the heat to your liking and enjoy that extra kick.
Final Thoughts
Put simply, One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet is the meal you’ll turn to on your busiest nights, but also crave on your most relaxed weekends. With bold flavors, good-for-you veggies, and minimal cleanup, it’s a recipe that really does it all. Give it a try and see just how easy and delicious dinnertime can be!
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One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a colorful mix of smoked sausage, bell peppers, zucchini, squash, onions, and carrots, all seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is bursting with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
Smoked Sausage:
1 lb, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Red Bell Pepper:
1, chopped
Yellow Bell Pepper:
1, chopped
Zucchini:
1, sliced
Yellow Squash:
1, sliced
Red Onion:
1, chopped
Baby Carrots:
1 cup, halved lengthwise
Olive Oil:
2 tablespoons
Garlic Powder:
1 teaspoon
Italian Seasoning:
1 teaspoon
Paprika:
1/2 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper:
to taste
Fresh Parsley:
for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the sausage slices until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet, then add the chopped vegetables. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the sausage to the skillet. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms based on availability.
- For a spicier dish, use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
