Name: SUMMER DINNER: Smoked Sausage and Veggies Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 yellow squash, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 small red onion, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s so versatile and easy to make. I can swap in whatever vegetables I have on hand, and it all cooks up beautifully in one pan for minimal cleanup. The smoky flavor of the sausage pairs perfectly with crisp-tender veggies, and everything comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether I serve it as-is or over rice, pasta, or quinoa, it’s always a hit at my table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
Zucchini
Yellow squash
Red bell pepper
Green bell pepper
Red onion
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
I add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until it’s browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Then I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add a bit more oil and toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers. I sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften.
I add zucchini, squash, and garlic to the pan, cooking everything for about 5–7 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
I season the veggies with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
I return the sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. I let it all heat through for another 2–3 minutes before removing from the heat.
I sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if I want a fresh pop of color.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. Dinner is ready in 30 minutes flat.

Variations

I like to change things up by adding corn kernels, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes when I have them on hand. For a spicier version, I sometimes use hot smoked sausage or toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. If I want to stretch the meal, I serve it over rice or stir in cooked pasta for a heartier dish.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each one. If I’m reheating a big batch, I add a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist.

FAQs

What kind of smoked sausage should I use?

I usually go with beef or pork smoked sausage, but turkey sausage works great too if I want something lighter. Any fully cooked sausage will do.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the veggies and sausage ahead, then toss everything together right before dinner. It makes weeknight cooking even easier.

How do I keep the veggies from getting soggy?

I make sure not to overcrowd the pan and cook the veggies just until tender-crisp. I also keep the heat at medium-high to help them sear.

Is this dish low-carb or keto-friendly?

It can be! If I skip starchy add-ins like corn or potatoes and serve it on its own, it fits into a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

Can I bake this instead of cooking it on the stove?

Yes, I toss everything in olive oil and seasoning, then roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. It’s just as delicious with a little less hands-on time.

Conclusion

Smoked Sausage and Veggies Skillet is one of those summer dinners I keep in my back pocket for busy nights. It’s fast, flexible, and full of flavor. Whether I’m using up garden veggies or grabbing a few things from the fridge, this one-pan meal always comes together beautifully—and leaves me with very few dishes to wash.

SUMMER DINNER: Smoked Sausage and Veggies Skillet