Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
This Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together the goodness of fresh vegetables and savory sausage. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this quick and colorful recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare. With everything cooked in one pan, clean-up is a breeze, making it a go-to option for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a filling meal that satisfies the whole family.
- One-Pan Cooking: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pan for easy clean-up.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sausage, bell peppers, zucchini, and corn creates a delightful blend of flavors.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this skillet meal provides balanced nutrition.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make this Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or frying pan: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the sausage and veggies.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
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 (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
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the bell pepper and slice the zucchini into rounds.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the cooked sausage slices.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is heated through (about 3–4 minutes), add the diced red bell pepper and sliced zucchini. Sauté for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 4: Add Corn and Seasoning
Stir in the corn kernels and chili powder. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and top with fresh cilantro. Serve warm as a hearty main course!
How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Serving your Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a breeze, thanks to its colorful ingredients and satisfying flavors. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides or toppings.
With Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor.
- Parsley or Basil: Add a sprinkle of parsley or basil to enhance the freshness.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Fluffy Rice: Serve the skillet over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal.
- Quinoa Base: Use quinoa for a protein-packed alternative that complements the veggies well.
With Tortillas
- Soft Flour Tortillas: Wrap the sausage and veggies in warm tortillas for a tasty hand-held option.
- Corn Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free twist that adds extra flavor.
Topped with Cheese
- Shredded Cheese: Add shredded cheese on top while it’s still hot so it melts beautifully.
- Feta Crumbles: Sprinkle feta cheese for a tangy finish that pairs perfectly with the dish.
As a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss your skillet mix with fresh greens for a light salad option.
- Spinach Addition: Add spinach to the skillet during cooking for more nutrients and flavor.
With Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Top your meal with sliced avocado for creaminess.
- Guacamole Side: Serve with guacamole on the side for an extra layer of taste.
How to Perfect Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
To make your Sausage and Veggies Skillet even better, follow these simple tips. They will help ensure your meal is flavorful and satisfying.
- Selection of Sausage: Choose high-quality sausage like Cajun or Andouille for rich flavors.
- Fresh Vegetables Matter: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best taste and nutrition.
- Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allow enough time to brown the sausage properly; this adds depth to the flavor.
- Season Well: Adjust spices according to your taste—don’t be afraid to experiment with additional herbs or spices!
Best Side Dishes for Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
Pairing sides with your delicious skillet meal can elevate it further. Here are some great options that go well with your Sausage and Veggies Skillet.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that complements the flavors perfectly while soaking up juices.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch adds contrast to the savory skillet dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness alongside this vibrant meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well while keeping it light.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful touch of sweetness to balance savory notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Sausage and Veggies Skillet, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.
- Skipping the prep work: Failing to chop veggies and prepare ingredients beforehand can lead to a chaotic cooking process. Always prep your ingredients first for a smoother meal.
- Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once will steam them instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect golden color.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust spices or salt for a delightful dish.
- Using cold sausage: Cold sausage can hinder cooking time and texture. Allow it to come to room temperature before adding it to your skillet.
- Not monitoring cook times: Different veggies have varying cooking times. Keep an eye on them to ensure everything is perfectly tender without overcooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Can be stored 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: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with the Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
You can serve this skillet dish with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How do I customize my Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or broccoli based on your preference. You can also switch up the type of sausage for different flavors.
Can I make this Sausage and Veggies Skillet ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to eat.
How do I store leftover Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Veggies Skillet is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or sausage types based on what you have at home. Try this colorful one-pan meal tonight; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
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 30-minute, one-pan meal that perfectly balances fresh vegetables with savory sausage. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is not only quick to make but also colorful and nutritious. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll have more time to enjoy quality moments with your family while indulging in a hearty meal. This recipe allows for easy customization based on your pantry staples and personal preferences, ensuring deliciousness every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (cooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz cooked sausage (such as Cajun or Andouille)
- 1 large red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 large zucchini (sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Gather and chop the bell pepper and zucchini.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add sausage slices.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until heated through.
- Add diced bell pepper and zucchini; cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in corn and chili powder, cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes until heated thoroughly.
- Remove from heat, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
