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There is something wonderfully satisfying about a meal that comes together quickly, bursts with color, and packs a punch of flavor all in one pan. The Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe does exactly that, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty yet fresh dish. With tender sausage, crisp veggies, and bright notes from fresh cilantro, this dish brings comfort and excitement to your plate without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity fool you — each ingredient in this Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe plays an essential role in building a melody of flavors and textures that you will love. From the smoky sausage to the vibrant veggies, every element is carefully chosen to create a balanced, delicious meal.
- 12 oz cooked sausage (cajun, andouille, or smoked): Choose your favorite type to add bold, smoky depth that carries the dish.
- 2 cups corn kernels: Sweet and juicy, they add bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This healthy fat is the perfect base to sauté and marry the flavors together.
- 1 large red bell pepper (diced): Adds crunch and a gorgeous pop of red, along with a subtle sweetness.
- 1 large zucchini (sliced): Tender and mild, it soaks up flavors and brings a lovely texture contrast.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Offers a gentle kick and smoky warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Brightens everything with a fresh, herbaceous note right before serving.
How to Make Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Veggies Ready
Start by giving your vegetables a good wash. Dice the red bell pepper into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly and release their sweet flavor. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds for quick, tender cooking. Chop a handful of fresh cilantro that will be used later to brighten the flavors and add that fresh, green aroma.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
Place a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Let it warm for about a minute until it’s shimmering, which means it’s ready to bring all the ingredients to life with its rich texture and subtle fruity notes.
Step 3: Sauté the Sausage
Add your cooked sausage slices to the skillet. Since they’re pre-cooked, your goal here is to heat them through and develop a little golden crust. About five minutes of sautéing does the trick, enhancing their smoky, spicy character, which is the backbone of this dish.
Step 4: Add the Veggies and Spices
Next, toss in the diced bell pepper, zucchini slices, and corn kernels. Sprinkle the chili powder over everything and stir well so the seasoning gets evenly distributed. Let the veggies cook alongside the sausage for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften just right but still have a nice bite and vibrant color.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Cilantro
Once all the ingredients are perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly chopped cilantro to add an herby, fresh brightness that creates a beautiful finish for this flavorful one-pan meal.
How to Serve Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even more, consider garnishing with extra fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the brightness. A sprinkle of shredded cheese can add a melty, comforting touch if you like a richer flavor. For an added crunch, toasted pepitas or chopped toasted almonds make a fantastic topping.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a wonderful main on its own but if you want to round the meal out, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements it perfectly. Garlic bread or warm tortillas can also be served alongside to soak up every bit of that flavorful goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe in colorful shallow bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. For a family-style presentation, put the entire skillet on the table to invite everyone to dig in and enjoy together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day. Just be sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and freshness.
Freezing
This skillet freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Allow the dish to cool completely before placing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making it a lifesaver for busy nights when cooking isn’t on the agenda.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use raw sausage for this recipe?
This recipe works best with pre-cooked sausage varieties like andouille or smoked sausage to ensure quick cooking. Using raw sausage would require longer cooking to ensure they’re fully done, which would alter the timing.
What vegetables can I substitute or add?
You can customize this skillet with other quick-cooking vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or snap peas. Just keep the size uniform so everything cooks evenly within the 30-minute timeframe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage. Just double-check the sausage label to be certain.
How spicy is the dish?
The chili powder adds a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh jalapeño along with the veggies.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or hearty sautéed mushrooms and add a bit more seasoning for depth. The veggies and spices will still shine beautifully in the one-pan meal format.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a delightful dinner that’s quick, colorful, and packed with irresistible flavors, you really can’t go wrong with the Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe. It’s cozy enough to feel like a treat but easy enough to become a weekly favorite. Give it a try and watch how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create pure dinner magic in just half an hour!
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Sausage and Veggies Skillet – 30 Minute One-Pan Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and easy 30-minute one-pan meal featuring cooked sausage sautéed with fresh bell pepper, zucchini, corn, and seasoned with chili powder, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 12 oz cooked sausage (cajun, andouille, or smoked)
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash all fresh produce thoroughly. Dice the red bell pepper, slice the zucchini into rounds or half moons, and chop fresh cilantro for garnish.
- Heat Oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat for about one minute until shimmering.
- Sauté Sausage: Add the cooked sausage pieces to the skillet. Cook for around five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is warmed through and develops a slight brown color.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Mix in the diced bell pepper, sliced zucchini, corn kernels, and sprinkle the chili powder evenly. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender yet retain some bite.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful one-pan meal.
Notes
- You can use any cooked sausage variety such as Cajun, andouille, or smoked for different flavor profiles.
- Fresh or frozen corn kernels both work well in this recipe.
- Adjust the chili powder quantity to suit your preferred spice level.
- This dish is perfect as a quick weeknight dinner served on its own or alongside rice or crusty bread.
- For added protein, consider adding a fried or poached egg on top.
