This speedy sausage and zucchini skillet is a winner for busy days! Juicy sausages and fresh zucchini come together in one pan for a tasty meal in just 20 minutes.
I love how simple it is to make. Just cook the sausage, toss in the zucchini, and it’s done! Perfect for those nights when you want a warm meal but don’t have much time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: This adds great flavor but you can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage or tempeh for a hearty alternative.
Zucchini: Zucchini is tender and complements the sausage well. If you can’t find it, yellow squash works just as nicely or add in some other veggies like bell peppers or broccoli.
Bell Pepper: I used red bell pepper for sweetness, but green, yellow, or even orange peppers are good choices. If you’re short on peppers, diced tomatoes can replace them for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just ¼ teaspoon will do!
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the sausage perfectly cooked is key for flavor. Start with a hot skillet to brown and caramelize the sausage, which enhances its taste.
- Heat the pan to medium-high before adding the sausage. You want it to sizzle!
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown all sides. The pieces should be golden brown.
- This step also adds great flavor to the rest of your dish when you cook the vegetables in the same pan.
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, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and another 10 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook 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. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and cooked through. Afterward, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet (to keep those tasty flavors!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and flavorful, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Zucchini:
Now, stir in the chopped zucchini. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still a little crisp. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
5. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat the sausage through again.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious skillet with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a lovely finishing touch. Serve it warm and enjoy your colorful, flavorful meal!
This sausage and zucchini skillet is not only easy to make, but it’s also a healthy dish that’s packed with flavor. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to use other vegetables like yellow squash, bell peppers of any color, broccoli, or even cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times for any veggies that may need longer to become tender.
What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?
Smoked sausage works best for this recipe, but you can also try chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a healthier option. If you’re going vegetarian, plant-based sausage or even chickpeas can make a great substitute!
Can I Make This Skillet Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead and meal prep this dish. Cook and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. The flavors may even improve after sitting for a bit!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, allow the dish to cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
