One-Pan Wonder: Skillet Sausage and Vegetables Recipe for a Quick & Delicious Meal

Are you searching for a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this fantastic skillet sausage and vegetables recipe! This dish is a true weeknight champion, offering a balanced blend of protein, vibrant vegetables, and savory seasonings, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. It’s customizable, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

## Why You’ll Love This Skillet Sausage and Vegetables Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **One-Pan Wonder:** Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks in a single skillet.
* **Healthy and Balanced:** Packed with protein and a variety of colorful vegetables, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the vegetables and seasonings to your liking.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses affordable ingredients that are readily available.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of savory sausage, roasted vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients. Feel free to substitute or adjust quantities based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

* **1 pound Sausage:** Choose your favorite type! Italian sausage (sweet or hot), kielbasa, chorizo, or even chicken sausage all work well. If using Italian sausage, consider removing it from its casing. Pre-cooked sausage is convenient but may require adjusting the cooking time.
* **1 large Onion:** Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Yellow or white onion works best.
* **2 Bell Peppers:** Use a combination of colors (red, yellow, orange, green) for visual appeal and a variety of nutrients.
* **2 cups Broccoli Florets:** Adds a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber.
* **1 cup Cherry Tomatoes:** Provide sweetness and a burst of juicy flavor. Grape tomatoes are also a good alternative.
* **2 cloves Garlic:** Minced, for aromatic flavor.
* **2 tablespoons Olive Oil:** For sautéing and roasting.
* **1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning:** A blend of dried herbs that adds classic Italian flavor.
* **1/2 teaspoon Paprika:** Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Fresh Parsley (optional):** For garnish.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious skillet sausage and vegetables:

**Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables**

* Wash and chop all the vegetables. Dice the onion, slice the bell peppers, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic.

**Step 2: Cook the Sausage**

* Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using sausage in casings, you can leave them whole or remove the sausage from the casings. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

**Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Bell Peppers**

* Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

**Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices**

* Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and coat the vegetables with the spices.

**Step 5: Add Broccoli and Tomatoes**

* Add the broccoli florets and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

**Step 6: Combine Sausage and Vegetables**

* Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine everything and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the skillet sausage and vegetables hot, as a main course. It can be served as is or accompanied with rice, quinoa, or pasta.

## Tips and Variations

* **Add Other Vegetables:** This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding harder vegetables earlier in the process.
* **Use Different Types of Sausage:** Experiment with different types of sausage to find your favorite flavor combination. Chorizo will add a spicy kick, while chicken sausage offers a leaner option.
* **Add Beans:** For extra protein and fiber, add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as cannellini beans or kidney beans, during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Add a Sauce:** For a saucier dish, add a can of diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, or pesto during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Make it Spicy:** Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
* **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, or cheddar cheese before serving for a cheesy and delicious twist.
* **Make it a Sheet Pan Dinner:** Instead of using a skillet, spread the vegetables and sausage on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
* **Meal Prep:** This dish is great for meal prepping. Cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
* **Serving Suggestions:**
* Serve over rice, quinoa, couscous, or pasta.
* Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
* Use it as a filling for tacos or wraps.
* Top it with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

## Detailed Cooking Time Guide

For optimal results, follow this detailed cooking time guide:

* **Sausage:** 5-7 minutes (until browned and cooked through)
* **Onion and Bell Peppers:** 5-7 minutes (until softened)
* **Garlic:** 30 seconds (until fragrant)
* **Broccoli and Tomatoes:** 5-7 minutes (until broccoli is tender-crisp)
* **Combined Cooking:** 2-3 minutes (to heat through)

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* **Calories:** Approximately 350-450 per serving
* **Protein:** 25-35 grams
* **Fat:** 20-30 grams
* **Carbohydrates:** 20-30 grams
* **Fiber:** 5-7 grams

## Choosing the Right Sausage

The type of sausage you choose will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:

* **Italian Sausage:** Available in sweet, mild, and hot varieties. Sweet Italian sausage is flavored with fennel and anise, while hot Italian sausage contains red pepper flakes for heat. This is a versatile choice that pairs well with most vegetables.
* **Kielbasa:** A Polish sausage that is typically smoked and seasoned with garlic, marjoram, and other spices. Kielbasa adds a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
* **Chorizo:** A spicy Spanish or Mexican sausage that is typically made with pork, paprika, and other spices. Chorizo adds a vibrant red color and a fiery kick to the dish. Be mindful of the fat content, as chorizo can release a significant amount of oil during cooking.
* **Chicken Sausage:** A leaner alternative to pork sausage. Chicken sausage is available in a variety of flavors, such as apple, spinach and feta, or sun-dried tomato. This is a good option for those who are watching their fat intake.
* **Andouille Sausage:** A spicy smoked sausage that is typically made with pork, garlic, and Cajun spices. Andouille sausage adds a bold and smoky flavor to the dish. This is a great choice for those who enjoy spicy food.

When choosing sausage, consider the following factors:

* **Flavor Profile:** Do you prefer sweet, mild, spicy, or smoky flavors?
* **Fat Content:** Are you looking for a leaner or richer option?
* **Ingredients:** Check the ingredient list to ensure that the sausage is made with high-quality ingredients and does not contain any unwanted additives.

## Selecting the Best Vegetables

The quality of the vegetables you use will also impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables whenever possible. Here are some tips for selecting the best vegetables:

* **Onion:** Choose onions that are firm, heavy for their size, and free of blemishes.
* **Bell Peppers:** Choose bell peppers that are firm, glossy, and brightly colored. Avoid peppers that are soft, wrinkled, or have blemishes.
* **Broccoli:** Choose broccoli that has tight, green florets and firm stalks. Avoid broccoli that has yellowing florets or soft stalks.
* **Cherry Tomatoes:** Choose cherry tomatoes that are firm, plump, and brightly colored. Avoid tomatoes that are soft, wrinkled, or have blemishes.
* **Other Vegetables:** Follow the same guidelines for selecting other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.

## Skillet Selection and Care

The type of skillet you use can also affect the outcome of the dish. A large, heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking and browning. Here are some popular skillet options:

* **Cast Iron Skillet:** Cast iron skillets are known for their excellent heat retention and even cooking. They are also durable and can last for generations with proper care. Season your cast iron skillet regularly to prevent rusting and ensure a non-stick surface.
* **Stainless Steel Skillet:** Stainless steel skillets are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust. They are a good choice for everyday cooking. Look for stainless steel skillets with a thick, heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
* **Non-Stick Skillet:** Non-stick skillets are easy to clean and require less oil for cooking. However, they are not as durable as cast iron or stainless steel skillets and may need to be replaced more frequently. Use non-stick skillets on low to medium heat to prevent damage to the non-stick coating.

To clean your skillet after cooking, follow these tips:

* **Cast Iron Skillet:** Scrape out any food residue with a spatula or scraper. Wash the skillet with hot water and a mild dish soap. Dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel and then heat it on the stovetop for a few minutes to ensure that it is completely dry. Season the skillet with a thin layer of oil.
* **Stainless Steel Skillet:** Wash the skillet with hot water and a mild dish soap. Use a sponge or scouring pad to remove any food residue. Dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel.
* **Non-Stick Skillet:** Wash the skillet with hot water and a mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the non-stick coating. Dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover skillet sausage and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, follow these instructions:

* **Microwave:** Heat the skillet sausage and vegetables in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
* **Stovetop:** Heat the skillet sausage and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* **Oven:** Heat the skillet sausage and vegetables in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

## Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This skillet sausage and vegetables recipe is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions and pairings:

* **As a Main Course:** Serve the skillet sausage and vegetables as a main course with a side of rice, quinoa, couscous, or pasta.
* **As a Side Dish:** Serve the skillet sausage and vegetables as a side dish to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
* **In Tacos or Wraps:** Use the skillet sausage and vegetables as a filling for tacos or wraps.
* **On Pizza or Pasta:** Top pizza or pasta with the skillet sausage and vegetables.
* **With Eggs:** Top the skillet sausage and vegetables with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

Here are some beverage pairings to complement the flavors of the dish:

* **Red Wine:** A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, pairs well with the savory flavors of the sausage and vegetables.
* **White Wine:** A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the freshness of the vegetables.
* **Beer:** A light-bodied beer, such as a lager or pilsner, pairs well with the dish without overpowering the flavors.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a successful skillet sausage and vegetables recipe, avoid these common mistakes:

* **Overcrowding the Skillet:** Overcrowding the skillet can prevent the vegetables from browning properly and result in a steamed rather than roasted texture. Cook the vegetables in batches if necessary.
* **Burning the Garlic:** Garlic can burn easily and become bitter. Add the garlic to the skillet after the onions and peppers have softened and cook for only 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
* **Overcooking the Vegetables:** Overcooking the vegetables can make them mushy and lose their flavor. Cook the vegetables until they are tender-crisp.
* **Using Too Much Oil:** Using too much oil can make the dish greasy. Use only enough oil to coat the vegetables and prevent them from sticking to the skillet.
* **Forgetting to Season:** Season the dish generously with salt and pepper to taste. Taste the dish throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings as needed.

## Conclusion

This skillet sausage and vegetables recipe is a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. With its customizable ingredients, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy this one-pan wonder!