If you are looking for a comforting and vibrant dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation, the Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe is an absolute winner. This one-pan wonder combines the savory richness of browned sausage with tender zucchini and bell peppers, all infused with fragrant garlic and Italian seasoning. It cooks up quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious and wholesome without a fuss. Plus, the mix of colorful veggies gives this skillet meal a fresh, inviting look that’s sure to delight everyone gathered around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is straightforward yet plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 lb sausage: Choose Italian or turkey sausage for a smoky, savory base that brings hearty flavor and protein.
- 2 medium zucchini: These sliced rounds provide a tender bite and bright green color that lightens the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper: Diced for a pop of sweetness and a splash of vibrant red on your plate.
- 1 small onion: Gives a mild pungency and natural sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant depth that elevates the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing, contributing a smooth richness and helping everything brown beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Perfect blend of herbs that ties all the elements together with an herby, earthy nuance.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery burst that brightens the finished dish.
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling on top, lending a salty, nutty touch that makes every bite even more indulgent.
How to Make Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step is key to ensure that the sausage will brown nicely rather than steam, setting the stage for rich, caramelized flavors that anchor the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add your sausage to the hot skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it is nicely browned and cooked all the way through. That sizzling sound is your cue that deliciousness is developing.
Step 3: Set the Sausage Aside
Remove the browned sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now. Giving the pan a quick wipe if needed prepares it for cooking the vegetables without any burnt bits interfering.
Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Red Bell Pepper
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers start to soften. This combination builds a slightly sweet and aromatic foundation for the zucchini.
Step 5: Add Garlic, Zucchini, and Seasoning
Next, stir in the minced garlic and zucchini rounds. Sprinkle everything with Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for around 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini turns tender but still holds a bit of bite. This step infuses the dish with herbal warmth and a tender-crisp texture.
Step 6: Combine Sausage and Veggies
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Let them cook together for an additional 2 minutes so the flavors meld and the dish is heated through perfectly.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Finish
Give the skillet a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preferences. Then, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. If you like, a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese adds a fabulous salty, nutty edge.
How to Serve Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a must for that lovely burst of color and fresh herbal note. A little grated Parmesan cheese on top offers an irresistible savory boost that melts slightly into the warm skillet mixture. For an extra touch, a few red pepper flakes add just the right hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal stands well on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread is fantastic for soaking up the tasty juices. Serve alongside cooked rice, creamy polenta, or even a simple green salad for a complete and balanced dinner experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style gathering, serve this dish straight out of the skillet at the table so everyone can dig in while it’s piping hot. Alternatively, spoon the mixture over warm pasta or even inside toasted baguette slices for a fun bruschetta-style appetizer. No matter how you present it, this Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe shines as a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover skillet sausage and zucchini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the dish sealed well prevents it from drying out and maintains the fresh flavors for your next meal.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully if you want to batch cook. Cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making it a convenient, ready-to-go meal option on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave. A splash of water or broth can help restore moisture if the zucchini feels a bit dry. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming without overcooking the sausage or veggies.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any sausage you like best, such as chicken sausage, chorizo, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. Just keep in mind the flavor profile may change slightly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage and seasoning. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten but craving hearty comfort food.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Try adding mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra color and nutrition. Just add those additional veggies when sautéing the onions and bell peppers.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To kick up the heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning or use a spicy sausage. You can also drizzle a little hot sauce on top before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this skillet dish is perfect for meal prep because it reheats well and keeps its flavor. Portion into containers for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give the Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. Quick, simple, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that makes both weeknights and weekend gatherings a little bit easier and much tastier. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Skillet Sausage and Zucchini Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A flavorful and easy one-pan meal featuring savory sausage sautéed with fresh zucchini, red bell pepper, and onions, seasoned with Italian herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this skillet dish combines protein and vegetables in a healthy, satisfying way.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 lb (450g) sausage (such as Italian or turkey sausage), casings removed
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the sausage and vegetables.
- Cook the sausage: Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Set sausage aside: Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to keep warm.
- Sauté onions and peppers: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers soften.
- Add garlic and zucchini: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced zucchini. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Combine sausage and vegetables: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Mix everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an added savory touch.
Notes
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option or Italian sausage for more robust flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- To keep zucchini from releasing too much water, cook it just until tender but still slightly firm.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or served over cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
