Sausage and veggie skillet

Sausage and veggie skillet is a simple, colorful, and hearty meal that comes together quickly in one pan. You get the rich, meaty flavor of sausage mixed with the fresh…

By Julia • February 16, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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Sausage and veggie skillet is a simple, colorful, and hearty meal that comes together quickly in one pan. You get the rich, meaty flavor of sausage mixed with the fresh crunch of peppers, zucchini, and onions, all cooked until tender and a little caramelized. It’s a great way to enjoy a bunch of veggies alongside savory sausage without much fuss or cleanup.

I love making this skillet on busy weeknights because it’s fast and filling. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or sprinkle some cheese on top right at the end to make it extra cozy. It’s one of those dishes where you can easily switch up the veggies based on what you have in the fridge, which I find really handy and comforting.

My favorite way to serve sausage and veggie skillet is with a big scoop of fluffy rice or some crusty bread to soak up all the tasty juices. It’s the kind of meal everyone seems to enjoy, and it feels nice knowing you’re getting a good balance of protein and vegetables all in one skillet. Perfect for warming up on cooler nights or anytime you want something quick and satisfying.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Sausages: Italian or smoked sausages bring great flavor here. If you want less fat, try chicken or turkey sausages. For a vegetarian option, plant-based sausages work well too.

Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes add a nice sweetness and color. You can swap zucchini with yellow squash or bell peppers. Fresh asparagus is best, but frozen can work if you cook it a bit longer.

Corn: Fresh corn kernels give a sweet crunch, but frozen corn is a handy alternative. No need to thaw fully—just add a little extra cooking time.

Spices: Smoked paprika is optional but really lifts the flavor. If you don’t have it, a pinch of chili powder or regular paprika can add a mild kick.

How Do You Cook Sausages and Veggies Together Without Overcooking?

Cooking sausage and veggies in one skillet can be tricky because they need different times. Start by cooking sausages first to get a nice brown color and ensure they’re cooked through. Remove them, and cook your veggies next.

• Use medium heat to avoid burning.
• Sauté onions until translucent—they add sweetness and soften other veggies.
• Add garlic last to prevent it from burning and turning bitter.
• Add veggies in order of cooking time: tomatoes and zucchini first, corn next, then asparagus last since it cooks quickly but benefits from some char.
• Return sausage to the skillet at the end and mix gently to combine and warm through.

Patience with timing helps keep sausages juicy and veggies tender but not mushy!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large cast-iron skillet – it holds heat well and helps brown the sausages and veggies evenly.
• Spoon or spatula – for stirring and turning the sausage and vegetables without scratching the pan.
• Sharp knife – makes slicing sausages and chopping veggies quick and safe.
• Cutting board – a sturdy surface for prepping all your ingredients.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap sausages for chorizo or bratwurst to try different flavors and spice levels.
• Add bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies and color.
• Sprinkle feta or Parmesan cheese on top for a salty, tangy touch before serving.
• Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of parsley for a different fresh note.

Sausage and Veggie Skillet

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 sausages (Italian, smoked, or your choice), sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. Most of that time is cooking, with a little time to prep your vegetables and slice the sausage. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy days.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausages and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning every so often until they’re browned and cooked through. When done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and cook until translucent – about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic next and cook for 1 more minute until it smells wonderful.

3. Cook the Veggies:

Add the cherry tomatoes and zucchini to the skillet and stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften. Then, add the corn kernels and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more. Season everything with salt, pepper, and the optional smoked paprika.

4. Cook the Asparagus:

Push the cooked veggies to one side of the skillet. Lay the asparagus in a single layer on the other side and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping once, until the asparagus is tender and a little charred.

5. Combine and Finish:

Return the sausage slices to the skillet. Gently mix them in with the vegetables to combine all the flavors. Let everything cook together for 2 more minutes to warm through.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the skillet before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty meal!

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for This Recipe?

Yes! Frozen corn and asparagus work well. Just add a couple of extra minutes when cooking to ensure they’re heated through and tender.

What’s a Good Substitute for Sausage?

You can use chicken or turkey sausage, or for a vegetarian option, try plant-based sausages or even sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the veggies from getting too soft.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish, then cool and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.