This quick and tasty sausage and zucchini skillet is a wonderful choice for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal in 20 minutes!
Trust me, once you start cooking, the yummy smell will have everyone coming to the kitchen. I love serving it over rice or pasta for an extra treat—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I love using Italian sausage because it adds so much flavor. You can pick mild or spicy based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage instead.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is perfect here since it cooks quickly and adds great texture. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash or even bell peppers for a different twist!
Onion: Onions add sweetness to the dish. I use yellow onions for their flavor. You could swap them out for shallots or even green onions if you like a milder taste.
Red Bell Pepper: It’s optional, but I think it brightens up the dish! If you don’t have it, skip it or go for another color bell pepper. Frozen mixed peppers work well too!
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or even butter for a richer taste.
How Do You Cook Sausage Perfectly?
Cooking sausage to perfection is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet on medium-high before adding the oil. This helps create a nice sear on the sausage.
- Use a wooden spoon to break it up into pieces as it cooks. Don’t rush this step; let it brown for a nice flavor!
- Make sure it’s cooked all the way through, with no pink remaining. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Remember, the goal is to get that delicious savory flavor that makes the base of your skillet so tasty!
Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced or crumbled
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for color and sweetness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and tasty dish will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5-7 minutes cooking the sausage, and then just 10-15 minutes to sauté the vegetables and bring everything together. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sausage:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced or crumbled Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up if necessary, until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Onion:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion and let it cook for about 3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Adding Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Cooking the Vegetables:
Now, add the sliced zucchini and the red bell pepper (if you’re using it). Stir frequently as they cook for another 5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender yet still have a bit of crispness to them.
5. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Sprinkle everything with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like some extra heat. Mix everything well and let it cook together for another 2 minutes so all the flavors can meld beautifully.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once everything’s cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and fresh flavor. If you enjoy cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the top as a final touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious sausage and zucchini skillet warm, either on its own or over a bed of rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite!
This dish proves that quick doesn’t mean compromising on flavor—happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or even plant-based sausages if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just ensure it’s fully cooked if using pre-cooked varieties.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, yellow squash works wonderfully as a substitute. You can also use bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli for a different flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Yes, you can increase the heat level! Use spicy Italian sausage, add extra red pepper flakes, or even toss in some chopped jalapeños for a fiery kick. Adjust the spices to your taste preference!
