This tasty Fall Vegetable and Sausage Skillet is packed with colorful veggies like squash, bell peppers, and onions, all mixed with savory sausage. It’s a warm hug in a dish!
I love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight. Just toss everything in the pan and let it cook. Plus, it fills the kitchen with a wonderful smell that makes everyone curious! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage or Kielbasa: This adds a rich and savory flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well, or you can use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Butternut Squash: It brings sweetness and a lovely texture. If you can’t find it, feel free to swap with sweet potatoes or carrots. They’ll add a similar sweetness to the dish.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both provide crunch and color. You can use just one type if you prefer, or substitute with bell peppers if zucchini isn’t available.
Olive Oil: Great for cooking and adds a bit of flavor. If you want a different taste, try avocado oil or even butter for a richer finish.
How Do I Make Sure All Vegetables Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking veggies at the right time ensures they’re tender without losing their vibrant colors. Here are some tips:
- Start with the denser vegetables first, like butternut squash and onions, as they take longer to soften.
- Add softer vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, later in the cooking process so they don’t overcook.
- Keep the heat at medium-high to get a good sear while still letting everything cook through.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, but not too often, as letting them sit can create nice caramelization!
Following these tips will help you get deliciously cooked veggies every time! Enjoy the comforting fall flavors! 🍂
Fall Vegetable and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful skillet dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. All in all, you’ll have a warm and cozy meal ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy on the edges, then use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, diced butternut squash, and both the red and yellow bell peppers. Stir occasionally, cooking until the vegetables soften, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
3. Add the Soft Vegetables:
Now, add the zucchini and yellow squash into the mix, along with the minced garlic. Season everything with the dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Keep cooking until all the vegetables are nicely tender and a little caramelized, about another 5-6 minutes.
4. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir everything together. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes so that all the flavors blend and everything is heated through.
5. Final Touch:
Give one last taste to check if you need any additional seasoning. If you desire, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your delicious, colorful skillet straight from the pan for a heartwarming fall meal that’s sure to please!
Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful one-pan dish! 🍂🥘
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of sausage you choose.
What If I Don’t Have All the Vegetables Listed?
No worries! This recipe is quite flexible. You can substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand, such as broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Just be mindful of the cooking times for different veggies.
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time! Just chop your veggies and sausage, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. You can then cook them when you’re ready to eat, or fully cook the dish and reheat later.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.
