Sausage and Veggies Skillet Recipe

This Sausage and Veggies Skillet is everything you crave in a lightning-fast one-pan meal: it’s hearty, fresh, and absolutely bursting with vibrant flavors. Juicy sausage, sweet corn, peppers, and zucchini all sizzle together with a sprinkle of chili powder for a crave-worthy dinner you’ll want to make again and again—no fuss, no fancy steps, just pure, big skillet happiness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long grocery list to create this Sausage and Veggies Skillet—just a handful of smart, flavorful ingredients that turn everyday veggies and sausage into something magical. Each ingredient brings its own special touch, from the smokiness of the sausage to the crisp sweetness of summer corn.

• Corn kernels (2 cups, about 3 ears cooked): Nothing beats the pop of fresh corn sliced off the cob, but frozen or canned works in a pinch, too!
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps everything sizzle to a perfect golden finish—go for extra virgin for even more flavor.
• Cooked sausage (12 oz, Cajun, andouille, or smoked): Choose your favorite for a flavor twist—spicy, smoky, or mild, they all work beautifully.
• Red bell pepper (1 large, diced): Adds sweetness and a burst of eye-catching color.
• Zucchini (1 large, sliced): Perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices while staying fork-tender.
• Chili powder (½ teaspoon): Just enough to add warmth and subtle complexity—add more if you love it spicy!
• Fresh cilantro (chopped): A bright, herbaceous finish that ties the skillet together, but feel free to swap in parsley if cilantro’s not your style.

Variations

This is the kind of meal that encourages you to get creative! The Sausage and Veggies Skillet is endlessly flexible, so you can swap veggies, change up the sausage, or tinker with the spices to fit what you love (or whatever’s lurking in your fridge).

• Veggie Swap: Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor variation.
• Dairy-Free or Vegetarian: Use your favorite plant-based sausage for a meatless version that’s just as hearty.
• Spice It Up: Toss in some smoked paprika or chipotle for even more depth and heat.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle shredded pepper jack or cheddar on top during the last minute of cooking for a gooey, melty upgrade.

How to Make Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your favorite cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Slice your fully cooked sausage into hearty coins and lay them in the hot skillet. Let them sizzle for about 5 minutes without stirring—this is where all that irresistible browning happens! Flip the sausages and cook for another 3 minutes. Once golden on both sides, remove the sausage to a plate, but don’t forget to reserve some of that flavorful oil left behind.

Step 2: Sauté the Bell Pepper

Toss your diced red bell peppers right into the same skillet (no washing needed!), and add a swirl of that reserved sausage oil if you notice any sticking. Sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers soften up and start to get a little char. Once they’re looking gorgeous and glossy, move them over to the plate with the sausage.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini

Drop the sliced zucchini into your skillet next, along with more reserved sausage oil if needed. Let the zucchini coins cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes—this way they get beautifully browned and retain that perfect tender bite. No mushy zucchini here!

Step 4: Add the Corn and Assemble

If you’re using fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cob (it’s easy and extra sweet!). With the skillet still hot, pile in the corn, the sautéed peppers, zucchini, and the browned sausage. Pour any reserved sausage oil over the top, sprinkle with chili powder, and give everything a good toss so all those flavors mingle. Warm it through for a minute or two, just until everything’s piping hot.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove your Sausage and Veggies Skillet from the heat and shower it with freshly chopped cilantro for a final pop of color and flavor. Taste before adding any salt—you might find the sausage provides all you need! Serve it straight from the skillet for maximum cozy vibes.

How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet

Garnishes

A generous scatter of freshly chopped cilantro is pure magic here—its bright flavor cuts through the richness of the sausage. For extra pizzazz, add a squeeze of fresh lime, a pinch of flaky salt, or even a dusting of cotija cheese if you want a little creamy tang!

Side Dishes

This skillet is hearty on its own, but it’s dreamy alongside soft, warm tortillas or a steaming bowl of rice. Want to round things into a true feast? Pair with a crisp green salad, some garlicky bread, or a scoop of simple mashed potatoes for ultra comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual nights, serve straight from the skillet set in the center of the table—rustic, cozy, and inviting. Or, spoon the mixture into colorful bowls and top with your favorite garnishes for a build-your-own dinner bar. Hosting a brunch? Tuck portions of the Sausage and Veggies Skillet into warm pita pockets or stuff into omelets for a show-stopping upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before storing. Pop them into an airtight container, and your Sausage and Veggies Skillet will keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ready for quick lunches or speedy weeknight repeats.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your leftovers, transfer the cooled mixture into a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture—zucchini may soften a bit more after freezing, but the flavors remain wonderful.

Reheating

Reheat your sausage and veggies skillet leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen things up. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring halfway through for even warmth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Veggies Skillet really is a weeknight hero—so satisfying, so lively, and so easy to love. I can’t wait for you to tuck into your own skillet full of color, flavor, and pure comfort. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to make it your own!

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