Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavors. Featuring smoky sausage, sweet corn, bell peppers, and zucchini, this dish is a hearty and satisfying dinner that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. The best part? It’s made in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and filling with minimal effort.

Why Sausage and Veggies Skillet is So Irresistible

What makes this Sausage and Veggies Skillet so irresistible is the combination of savory sausage, fresh veggies, and sweet corn, all cooked together with just the right amount of seasoning. The sausage provides a smoky richness, while the corn adds a burst of sweetness, and the bell peppers and zucchini provide freshness and crunch. With everything coming together in one pan, it’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Sausage and Veggies Skillet Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Skillet:
- 2 cups corn kernels (from 3 ears of cooked corn)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces 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 (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Cook the Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Slice the cooked sausage into coins and add them to the skillet.
Cook for about 5 minutes on one side, then flip over and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side until they are nicely browned.
Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a large plate. There will be oil left from the sausage, which you can use for the veggies.

Prepare the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the diced red bell pepper and cook for about 4 minutes on medium heat until softened. If the veggies begin to stick, add a bit of the reserved oil from the sausage.
Once the bell pepper is cooked, remove it from the skillet and add it to the plate with the sausage.
Next, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on medium heat until tender. Again, add a little oil if needed to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Corn
While the veggies are cooking, slice the corn kernels off the cob with a knife. You can also use frozen or canned corn if fresh corn isn’t available.
Assemble the Skillet
Once all the vegetables are cooked, return the sausage and bell peppers to the skillet, along with the cooked zucchini and fresh corn kernels.
Mix everything well, adding any reserved oil from the cooked sausage to help combine the ingredients.
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder over the mixture and stir to evenly coat. Heat everything on low until warmed through.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and top with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Sausage: The sausage is the star of this dish. Using a flavorful sausage, such as Cajun, Andouille, or smoked sausage, adds richness and depth to the meal. The spiciness of Cajun sausage balances beautifully with the sweetness of the corn and peppers.
Veggies: Bell peppers and zucchini provide a fresh and crisp contrast to the savory sausage. You can also substitute with other veggies like onions, mushrooms, or spinach.
Corn: Fresh corn kernels bring sweetness and a juicy bite to the dish. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn works just as well.
Chili Powder: The chili powder gives the dish a subtle heat that complements the sausage, without overpowering the other flavors.

Exploring Variations for Your Sausage and Veggies Skillet

This dish is very adaptable! Here are a few variations to make it your own:

Add More Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or even sweet potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make It Spicy: If you like more heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Try Different Sausages: Swap out the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or go for a vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version.

Tips for Perfect Sausage and Veggies Skillet Every Time

Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet holds heat well, which is great for browning the sausage and cooking the veggies evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the sausage in batches if necessary to ensure it gets a nice, brown crust. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. This dish works great with onions, carrots, or even broccoli.

Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Sausage and Veggies Skillet (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 300 kcal
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 16g
Fiber: 4g

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of sausage and add more veggies to keep the calorie count lower while still enjoying a flavorful dish.

Storing and Reheating Your Sausage and Veggies Skillet

To Store: Allow the skillet to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm it in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if it’s too dry.

Serving Suggestions for Sausage and Veggies Skillet

This Sausage and Veggies Skillet is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side of rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a more filling meal. It also pairs well with a light green salad for a balanced dinner.

Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

Cast iron skillet or large frying pan for cooking the sausage and vegetables
Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
Measuring spoons for the spices

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different kind of sausage?
Yes, you can use any sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or chicken sausage. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you prefer a spicier version, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the sausage and veggies ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Quick and Easy Sausage and Veggies Skillet Recipe

Ingredients:

1 lb sausage
1 cup corn kernels
2 bell peppers
1 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions:

Cook sausage and vegetables.
Mix in spices and corn.
Heat and serve with cilantro.

Key Takeaways

Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a versatile, hearty dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy nights, and with the option to use different sausages and vegetables, it’s a dish that can be customized to your taste. It’s filling, flavorful, and sure to be a hit!