Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: One-Pan Cooking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.Quick Answer
For a hearty and simple meal, brown Italian sausage and sauté zucchini and red bell pepper, seasoned with garlic and spices, for a comforting one-pan dish.As the crisp autumn air settles over New York City and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, I find myself drawn to warm, hearty dishes that evoke the essence of the season. With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, there's nothing quite like creating a comforting atmosphere in my kitchen. Today, I'm thrilled to share my Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe, a perfect blend of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
This one-pan meal not only captures the spirit of comfort food but also offers a light and nutritious option for your festive gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty yet light, making it a comforting option for the autumn season.
- Versatile recipe that allows for seasonal vegetable substitutions.
- Packed with flavor from Italian sausage and fresh herbs.
- Great for meal prep; leftovers are delicious and easy to reheat.
Ingredients
This Skillet Sausage and Zucchini dish is both hearty and simple, perfect for a cozy meal.
Protein
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your taste)
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for an extra kick
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Make Skillet Sausage and Zucchini (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to create a delightful one-pan meal that encapsulates the essence of comfort food.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the garlic, cooking until fragrant, around 30 seconds. The combination of sizzling sausage and sweet onions will have your taste buds dancing.
Step 3: Add Zucchini and Bell Pepper
Toss in the sliced zucchini and diced red bell pepper. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vibrant colors and fresh smells will make you feel like a culinary artist in your warm NYC home.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
As vegetables become tender, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. The bright green parsley adds a fresh, inviting touch to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet: This can cause your sausage to steam instead of brown. Use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.
- Skipping the aromatics: Don't underestimate the power of garlic and onion; they layer the flavors beautifully.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste as you go! The right balance of salt and pepper elevates the dish significantly.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heating and better browning.
- Let the sausage rest for a few minutes off the heat before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with different types of sausage for unique flavors.
- Add seasonal vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.
- Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the zucchini slices to ensure even cooking.
Variations
- Swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage or a plant-based alternative.
- Replace zucchini with yellow squash or eggplant.
- Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Using different herbs like thyme or basil can change the flavor profile.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
How to Serve
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a filling for a warm wrap for a cozy lunch.
- Top with grated Parmesan or feta cheese for added richness.
- Accompany with a fresh side salad for a balanced dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prep the vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen; store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Throughout my preparations, I found that the key to a truly flavorful skillet dish lies in the perfect balance of spices and fresh ingredients. I also realized how versatile this recipe can be; feel free to add whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it your own!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 20g protein · 15g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Savor This Hearty Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Toss in the sliced zucchini and diced red bell pepper. Sprinkle with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- As vegetables become tender, adjust seasoning if needed. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, you can use any sausage you prefer, such as chicken, turkey, or vegetarian alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as different sausages may require varied cooking times.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce during cooking to enhance the heat in this dish.
3. What can I use instead of zucchini?
Feel free to substitute zucchini with other vegetables like yellow squash, bell peppers, or even broccoli depending on your taste preference.
4. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
5. What's a good side dish to serve with Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
This meal pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or served over rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete meal.
