Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This skillet meal is a lifesaver when you need something fast, nutritious, and delicious. It comes together in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and can be tailored to whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s naturally gluten-free, loaded with protein and fiber, and the savory sausage adds rich, comforting flavor to every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
smoked sausage or kielbasa
olive oil
bell peppers (various colors)
zucchini
yellow squash
red onion
garlic cloves
cherry tomatoes (optional)
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning or your favorite herb blend
fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Slice the sausage into 1/4-inch rounds.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes if using. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Low-Carb Option: Stick to non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or cauliflower.
- Add Grains: Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.
- Different Proteins: Swap sausage with grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top and let it melt before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the texture of the vegetables. This dish is also freezer-friendly for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
What kind of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or fully cooked chicken sausage are all great choices. Use your favorite based on spice and flavor preferences.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s great for meal prep and can be made up to 4 days in advance.
How do I prevent the veggies from getting soggy?
Cook them over medium-high heat and avoid over-stirring. Aim for slightly crisp-tender vegetables.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the sausage you use is certified gluten-free.
What’s the best skillet to use?
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel works best for even heat distribution and browning.
Can I add a sauce?
Yes, a splash of balsamic glaze, teriyaki, or garlic butter can add a flavorful twist.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, allow it to cool completely before freezing. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
What should I serve with this?
It’s great on its own, but also pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and steaming the vegetables.
Conclusion
The Sausage and Veggie Skillet is a simple, satisfying meal that delivers big on taste without the hassle. With its mix of vibrant vegetables and savory sausage, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a quick and hearty dish. Versatile and easy to customize, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
PrintSausage and Veggie Skillet
The Sausage and Veggie Skillet is a quick, colorful one-pan meal featuring juicy sausage and sautéed vegetables. It’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep, offering bold flavor, easy cleanup, and wholesome ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bell peppers (various colors), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or herb blend
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Slice the sausage into 1/4-inch rounds.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes (if using). Sauté for 6–8 minutes until vegetables are tender but crisp.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for another 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fully cooked sausage to speed up prep time.
- Customize with any vegetables you have on hand.
- For a low-carb option, skip starchy vegetables.
- Add cheese at the end for a melty topping.
- Freezes well for up to 2 months — ideal for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
