Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl: 7-Ingredient Savory One-Pan Favorite

Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl is a simple, hearty meal that brings together savory sausage and colorful vegetables in one satisfying dish. Cooked in a single skillet, this bowl delivers bold flavor, balanced texture, and comforting warmth without complicated steps.

The combination of juicy sausage and tender-crisp vegetables creates a perfect contrast. Slight caramelization from high-heat cooking deepens the flavor, while fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon brighten each bite. Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl works beautifully as a quick weeknight dinner or a reliable meal prep option.

Whether served on its own or layered over rice or quinoa, this skillet bowl is filling, flexible, and packed with satisfying flavor.

Ingredients Overview

The star of Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl is high-quality sausage. Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or chicken sausage all work well. Pork sausage offers rich, savory depth, while chicken sausage provides a lighter option.

Bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant color. Red and yellow peppers are slightly sweeter, while green peppers offer a mild, earthy note.

Zucchini contributes tenderness and absorbs flavor from the sausage as it cooks. It also adds moisture and lightness to the bowl.

Red onion or yellow onion provides natural sweetness once sautéed and lightly caramelized.

Broccoli florets add texture and a mild bitterness that balances the richness of the sausage.

Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables evenly and promotes browning.

Garlic enhances the savory base and ties the flavors together.

Optional additions include cherry tomatoes for brightness, spinach for extra greens, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added richness.

Together, these ingredients create Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl with layered flavor and satisfying texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Slice 12 ounces sausage into rounds or bite-sized pieces. Add to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add 1 sliced bell pepper, 1 sliced zucchini, 1 cup broccoli florets, and ½ sliced onion.

Sauté the vegetables for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain browning.

Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.

Remove from heat and serve immediately.

If serving over rice or quinoa, spoon the sausage and vegetable mixture over the base and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

For extra flavor, sprinkle Italian seasoning or smoked paprika over the vegetables while sautéing.

If you prefer a spicier bowl, use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.

Sweet potatoes or baby potatoes can be added for a heartier variation. Dice and cook them first until tender before adding other vegetables.

For a lower-carb version, serve the skillet mixture on its own or over cauliflower rice.

To make it dairy-free, simply avoid adding cheese.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl is ideal for quick weeknight dinners because it comes together in under 30 minutes.

Serve it over brown rice, quinoa, or farro for added texture and fiber.

It also works well as a meal prep option, divided into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

For gatherings, serve it family-style in a large skillet at the table.

A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs nicely alongside.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Sausage provides protein and essential nutrients such as iron and B vitamins.

Vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Using olive oil in moderate amounts supports heart-healthy fats.

Choosing lean chicken sausage reduces overall fat content while maintaining flavor.

Balancing the bowl with whole grains or additional vegetables creates a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes. Thaw and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.

2. What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage or smoked sausage provide the most flavor, though chicken sausage is a lighter alternative.

3. How do I keep vegetables from becoming soggy?

Cook over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.

4. Can I make Sausage Veggie Skillet Bowl ahead of time?

Yes. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet.

5. Can I add grains directly to the skillet?

Yes. Stir in cooked rice or quinoa at the end and warm through.

6. How can I add more flavor?

A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the dish.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sausage used is certified gluten-free.

Print