Sausage and Veggie Skillet: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

Sausage and Veggie Skillet is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Packed with Italian sausage and a variety of vegetables, this one-pan meal offers comfort food with minimal preparation. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, offering a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and rich, savory flavors that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Veggie Skillet

This Sausage and Veggie Skillet is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly quick and simple to prepare. The dish combines flavorful sausage with nutrient-packed frozen vegetables, making it a great time-saver. The use of Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, reducing cleanup time!

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this easy, delicious dish:

• Olive oil: Adds healthy fats and a subtle, rich flavor to the dish.
• Italian sausage: Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference. This is the star protein of the dish.
• Frozen veggies: A pre-blended mix of potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli. The frozen option cuts down on prep time while still packing in essential nutrients.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic, savory element that complements the sausage and veggies.
• Herbs and spices: A mix of basil, thyme, oregano, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, which bring out the best flavors in the sausage and vegetables.
• Frozen kale: For extra greens and nutrients, frozen kale is an excellent addition.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated to add a salty, creamy finish to the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for substitutions or adjustments, consider these alternatives:

• Vegetarian sausage: For a plant-based option, substitute the Italian sausage with a vegetarian sausage.
• Other frozen vegetables: If you can’t find the exact veggie blend used in the recipe, feel free to swap in your favorites like peas, green beans, or cauliflower.
• Fresh garlic: If you don’t have frozen garlic cubes, fresh minced garlic works just as well in this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sausage and Veggie Skillet:

1. Start by microwaving the frozen vegetables for about 2 minutes to slightly thaw them.
2. While the veggies are thawing, heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground Italian sausage.
3. Cook the sausage, breaking it up into crumbles. Season with salt and pepper to taste as it browns.
4. After the sausage has browned, drain excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan.
5. Add the thawed veggies and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until heated through. If the broccoli or potato pieces are too large, chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them.
6. Stir in the frozen kale, garlic, and the herb/spice blend. Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and finish by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Since you’re using frozen veggies, be careful not to overcook them. They only need a few minutes to heat through.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: If you prefer more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or extra paprika. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Meal prep: This dish is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this Sausage and Veggie Skillet is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with a light side dish or bread for a heartier dinner:

• Salads: A simple Caesar or garden salad is a perfect fresh counterpart to the richness of this skillet meal.
• Bread: Serve with some crusty no-knead bread for a delightful side that complements the savory flavors of the sausage and veggies.
• Make-ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then quickly reheat it on the stove for a fast and easy meal later.

Health Benefits of This Sausage and Veggie Skillet

This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a variety of essential nutrients. The frozen vegetables offer a quick way to get your servings of fiber and vitamins, while the Italian sausage provides protein and a deliciously savory flavor. The addition of kale boosts the nutrient profile, offering vitamins A and C, as well as iron.

Conclusion

Sausage and Veggie Skillet is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to serve the whole family, this recipe has you covered. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s a foolproof way to enjoy a satisfying, comforting dish in just 25 minutes. Packed with protein, veggies, and savory spices, this skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll return to time and time again.

FAQs About Sausage and Veggie Skillet

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