Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute, One-Pan Meal

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you craving a delicious, satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Then get ready to fall head over heels for this Sausage and Veggies Skillet! This isn’t just any skillet dinner; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, ready in a mere 30 minutes. Imagine this: juicy Italian sausage bursting with savory herbs, tender-crisp bell peppers and onions, all swimming in a rich, slightly sweet and perfectly seasoned sauce. The best part? It’s all cooked up in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your time.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness. The ingredients are readily available, and the process is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. You’ll taste the freshness of the vegetables, the satisfying bite of the sausage, and the delightful balance of flavors in every spoonful. It’s a complete meal, packed with protein and veggies, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for a weeknight dinner. This skillet is incredibly versatile too – perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together with friends, or even a quick and easy lunch. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and the promise of a truly delicious meal – it’s the kind of comfort food that soothes the soul.

This Sausage and Veggies Skillet isn’t just about taste; it’s about the experience. It’s about the joy of creating something delicious with minimal effort and the satisfaction of savoring a hearty, flavorful meal without spending your whole evening in the kitchen. So, are you ready to make this amazing recipe? Let’s get cooking!

What You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!) – The star of the show! Choose your favorite type for a personalized flavor experience.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the skillet.
• 2 bell peppers (different colors for visual appeal!), chopped – Provides a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds juicy texture and acidity to balance the richness of the sausage.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Enhances the flavor and creates a delicious sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – A potent aromatic that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic Italian herb for a fragrant and authentic touch.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Adds another layer of herbaceous flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
• Olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and sausage.
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped – For a beautiful garnish and extra freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.

1. Prepare your ingredients: Chop the onion and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic. This prep work makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
2. Brown the sausage: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casings (if using links) and crumble it into the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned on all sides. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the browned sausage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but still retain some crunch. Tip: Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
4. Add the aromatics and liquids: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally. Tip: If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Sausage and Veggies Skillet!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Sausage and Veggies Skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the sausage: This will prevent even browning and may result in steaming instead of crisping. Work in batches if necessary.

Adjust the cooking time for your vegetables: If you prefer your vegetables more tender, cook them for a longer period. If you like them with a bit more crunch, reduce the cooking time slightly.

Taste and adjust seasonings: Seasoning is key! Taste the skillet before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.

Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach, to customize the recipe to your taste.

Use high-quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Choose a brand you enjoy!

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few variations to try:

Spicy Sausage Skillet: Use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Vegetarian Skillet: Substitute the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or firm tofu for a meat-free version.

Gluten-Free Skillet: Ensure that your sausage and broth are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Hearty Skillet: Add cooked pasta, quinoa, or rice to make this a more substantial meal.

Mediterranean Skillet: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

You can also freeze this skillet for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently in a skillet or in the microwave. Note that the texture may be slightly different after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different types of sausage? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sausage varieties, such as chorizo, andouille, or even breakfast sausage. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.

Q: How long does the Sausage and Veggies Skillet last in the fridge? A: Properly stored in an airtight container, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the skillet just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes! This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or carrots.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for freezing? A: Yes, this recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

The Final Word

This 30-minute Sausage and Veggies Skillet is a true weeknight winner! It’s quick, easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. The combination of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Its one-pan convenience makes cleanup a breeze, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your delicious meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty and satisfying dinner without the fuss.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your delicious creations on social media using #SausageVeggiesSkillet. Happy cooking!

Sharing is caring!