Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish! You can use either mild or spicy based on your taste. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken sausages work well too!

Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are key for texture. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or even diced bell peppers could make great substitutes for a similar taste.

Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out of onions, shallots are a good swap, and for a milder flavor, you might try green onions.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/4 teaspoon, since it’s more concentrated.

Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. If you want to skip it, you can use any available sweet pepper or even a bit of frozen mixed vegetables in a pinch!

What’s the Best Way to Cook Zucchini without Making It Soggy?

Cooking zucchini to the right tenderness while keeping it slightly crisp can be tricky. Here are some steps to get it just right:

• Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give the zucchini space to cook properly.
• Cook on medium-high heat for a short time; aim for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally just until it’s tender but still has a bite!

Keeping zucchini crisp adds freshness to your dish, which is a perfect balance with the savory sausage!

Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Skillet:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional for color and sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and 10 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy evenings!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Browning the Sausage:

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and the optional red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are softened and onions are translucent.

3. Adding Garlic:

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant and golden.

4. Cooking the Zucchini:

Now, it’s time to add the sliced zucchini. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.

5. Mixing in the Sausage:

Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm the sausage and combine the flavors.

6. Garnishing and Serving:

Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately, and if you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor!

Enjoy this quick and flavorful sausage and zucchini skillet for an easy weeknight meal! It’s colorful, satisfying, and sure to be a favorite!

FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Sausage and Zucchini Skillet

Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is the traditional choice, you can use any ground sausage you prefer, such as turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if using leaner meats, as they may cook faster.

Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Yes, you can! While this dish is best served fresh, you can pre-cook the sausage and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just sauté everything together when you’re ready to eat!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add?

You can mix in various vegetables based on your preferences! Consider adding cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just ensure to keep the cooking time in mind, as different veggies may require different sautéing times.