This quick sausage and zucchini skillet is perfect for a busy day! With all the tasty flavors coming together in just 20 minutes, it’s a life-saver.
The juicy sausage pairs wonderfully with tender zucchini, making every bite yummy! I love serving it over rice or pasta for a hearty meal that’s ready in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: I love using smoked sausage for deep flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works surprisingly well! Feel free to use your favorite sausage, even vegetarian or plant-based alternatives, to suit your needs.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a nice crunch and freshness. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a good alternative. Both cook similarly and add a lovely color to the dish.
Red Bell Pepper: This pepper brings a sweet flavor and bright color. You can swap it for green bell pepper, which is more bitter, or even some diced tomatoes for a different twist. Carrots also make a colorful addition!
Onion: Yellow onions are great for their sweetness. If you’d like a milder taste, opt for scallions or shallots. They add flavor without overwhelming the dish.
How Do You Get the Sausage to Cook Perfectly?
When cooking the sausage, it’s important to get a nice brown color for added flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the sausage slices in a single layer and let them cook uninterrupted for a couple of minutes before flipping.
- Cook until nicely browned on both sides, which adds a delicious depth to your skillet. This should take about 5 minutes.
Keeping the heat steady helps achieve that golden-brown crust that makes the dish taste even better. Don’t rush this step!
Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into half-moons or chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish comes together in a quick 20 minutes! You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the veggies and sausage, and around 15 minutes cooking and combining everything. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook until nicely browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
3. Combine and Season:
Now it’s time to add the chopped red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and season with the dried oregano, dried basil (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Finish and Serve:
Return the browned sausage to the skillet, mixing it in with the veggies. Stir everything together and heat through for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your sausage and zucchini skillet hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
This quick and simple skillet meal offers a great balance of savory sausage and fresh vegetables, all coming together in about 20 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash is a great alternative. You can also use other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to add variety. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable used, so adjust accordingly!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and vegetables a day in advance. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to serve. Just be aware that the vegetables may become slightly softer after reheating.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave. For the best texture, add a splash of olive oil or a little broth to prevent drying out!
