Sausage and Veggies Skillet

This hearty sausage and veggies skillet has been my weeknight dinner savior for years. When I need a nutritious, flavor-packed meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this one-pan wonder always delivers smiles around our dinner table.

My husband actually declared this his favorite weeknight meal last summer when I was trying to use up our farmers market haul. Now our kids request it whenever they see bell peppers in the grocery cart.

Ingredients

• Sausage: Fully cooked variety like andouille, cajun or smoked, adds incredible flavor without extra work
• Red bell pepper: Brings vibrant color and sweet crunch to balance the savory sausage
• Zucchini: Absorbs all the wonderful flavors while adding nutritional value; look for firm, smaller ones
• Corn kernels: Add natural sweetness and texture; fresh from the cob is best but frozen works too
• Olive oil: Helps create that perfect sear on the ingredients
• Chili powder: Adds warmth without overwhelming heat; adjust to your preference
• Fresh cilantro: Brightens everything and brings a pop of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Slice your precooked sausage into coin-shaped pieces about half an inch thick. Add sausage to the hot skillet, arranging in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 minutes until they develop a beautiful brown crust, then flip and cook another 3 minutes. This patient cooking creates caramelization that infuses the entire dish with flavor. Transfer sausage to a plate, reserving the flavorful oil.

Sauté the Bell Pepper:

Using the same skillet with some of the reserved sausage oil, cook diced bell pepper for about 4 minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally but not constantly to allow some charring on the edges, which develops sweetness. The pepper should soften slightly while maintaining some texture. Remove peppers to the plate with the sausage.

Cook the Zucchini:

Add sliced zucchini to the same skillet, adding a bit more reserved oil if needed. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still has a slight bite. Avoid overcooking as zucchini can quickly become mushy. The goal is tender yet firm slices with some golden edges.

Combine and Finish:

Return all cooked ingredients to the skillet, adding the corn kernels. Gently fold everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. Sprinkle with chili powder and drizzle with any remaining reserved sausage oil. Heat everything through over low heat for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro.

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The sausage is truly the star here. I discovered by accident that using a high-quality smoked sausage makes all the difference. My grandmother always said good ingredients make good cooking, and this recipe proves her right every time.

Make Ahead Options

This skillet dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooling completely, store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The flavors actually develop overnight, making day two servings sometimes even better than the first night.

Simple Variations

Change up this versatile recipe based on what you have on hand. Yellow squash works beautifully in place of or alongside zucchini. Try adding sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Onions or shallots sautéed until caramelized add wonderful depth. For a spicier version, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can even swap the sausage for chicken apple sausage for a slightly sweeter profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this colorful skillet straight from the pan for a rustic presentation that saves on dishes. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for sopping up the flavorful juices. For a more substantial meal, serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. A simple side salad with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly. For brunch, try topping with a fried egg for a delicious twist.

The Perfect Seasonal Rotation

This recipe transforms beautifully throughout the year. In summer, use garden-fresh zucchini, corn, and tomatoes. Fall brings opportunities for sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts. Winter versions can include hearty kale and butternut squash. The consistent cooking method with seasonal ingredient swaps keeps this dish in our regular rotation year-round while never feeling repetitive.

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Enjoy this simple, flavorful skillet dish knowing it will always satisfy your family and impress your guests!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of sausage works best in this skillet meal?

Cajun sausage, andouille sausage, or smoked sausage all work wonderfully. Choose based on your preferred spice level - andouille provides more heat, while smoked sausage offers a milder flavor. Pre-cooked varieties save time but ensure they're sliced into even coins for consistent browning.

→ Can I substitute other vegetables in this dish?

Absolutely! This skillet is versatile and works well with many vegetables. Try yellow squash instead of zucchini, use different bell pepper colors, add onions, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as some vegetables cook faster than others.

→ Do I need to use fresh corn or can I substitute frozen?

While fresh corn offers the best flavor and texture, frozen corn works perfectly well as a time-saving alternative. If using frozen corn, there's no need to thaw it first - simply add it to the skillet in the final cooking stage and heat until warmed through.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper. You could also include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Using a spicier sausage variety like andouille or chorizo will also elevate the heat level throughout the entire dish.

→ Can this skillet meal be prepared ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components separately and refrigerate for 1-2 days. When ready to serve, reheat everything together in a skillet with a splash of olive oil. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight, making this a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

→ What can I serve with this sausage and veggies skillet?

This one-pan meal is satisfying on its own, but pairs nicely with simple sides. Try serving over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A simple green salad on the side creates a complete and balanced meal.