If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dish, Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is the perfect solution! This vibrant mix of sausage, zucchini, onions, and peppers comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, this recipe is Whole30 compliant, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Vegetables
- For the Sausage
- For Seasoning
- For Cooking
- Optional Garnish
- How to Make Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Step 1: Heat the Skillet
- Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
- Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Step 4: Sauté Until Tender
- Step 5: Combine Everything
- How to Serve Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Serve Over Rice
- Pair with Quinoa
- Add a Side Salad
- Top with Fresh Herbs
- Include Crusty Bread
- How to Perfect Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Best Side Dishes for Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Reheating Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
- Can I customize my Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
- How long does it take to prepare Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
- Is Skillet Sausage and Zucchini gluten-free?
- What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Meal: This recipe can be served as a main dish or paired with grains for a complete meal. It’s great for lunch or dinner!
- Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies or use different types of sausage based on your preference.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve the desired browning on the sausage.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting ingredients easier and safer.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to chop vegetables efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini (cubed)
- 1 onion (cut into ¾ inch pieces)
- 1 bell pepper (any color, cut into ¾-inch pieces)
For the Sausage
- 4 fully cooked sausages (sliced into circles ¼-inch thick)
For Seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
For Cooking
- 2 ½ tbsp olive or avocado oil
Optional Garnish
- Fresh basil
How to Make Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage.
- Sauté while flipping often until browned (about a few minutes).
- Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Add the remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of oil to the skillet along with zucchini, onion, and bell pepper.
- Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, basil, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir well.
Step 4: Sauté Until Tender
- Cook until onions are translucent and vegetables are nearing tenderness (about 5 minutes).
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the sautéed sausage back into the skillet along with minced garlic.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Skillet Sausage and Zucchini!
How to Serve Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Serving Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is as delightful as preparing it. This dish can stand alone or be complemented with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Serve Over Rice
- Fluffy white or brown rice provides a great base for the savory flavors of the skillet dish.
Pair with Quinoa
- Quinoa adds a nutritious boost, making your meal high in protein and fiber.
Add a Side Salad
- A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette can add crunch and brightness to your plate.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley elevates the dish, adding both color and flavor.
Include Crusty Bread
- Serve with some crusty bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up the juices from the skillet.

How to Perfect Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
To achieve the best results with your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini, consider these handy tips for cooking perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausage enhance flavors significantly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to customize seasonings based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Cut Uniform Sizes: Ensuring that the zucchini, onion, and peppers are cut evenly helps them cook at the same rate.
- Control Heat: Start at medium-high heat to brown the sausage; then lower it to cook the veggies evenly without burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If cooking in batches, avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steaming rather than sautéing.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste during cooking so you can adjust seasoning before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Complementing your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color while keeping things healthy.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that pairs well.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauces beautifully while adding nutrients.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes; grill or boil for quick prep.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances well against the savory sausage dish.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve this dish over spiralized zucchini noodles.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness to your meal, especially if dressed lightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Skillet Sausage and Zucchini, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Bold seasoning choices: Over-seasoning can overwhelm the dish. Start with less and adjust according to your taste.
- Bold cutting sizes: Inconsistent vegetable sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for similar-sized pieces for even tenderness.
- Bold oil temperature: Using oil that’s not hot enough can result in soggy sausage. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the sausage.
- Bold timing issues: Cooking too long can make the veggies mushy. Keep an eye on them and cook until just tender.
- Bold ingredient substitutions: Not all sausages work equally well. Choose high-quality sausages that complement the other flavors in the dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Divide into portions for easier reheating later.
Reheating Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is a quick, healthy meal made with cooked sausage, zucchini, onions, and peppers sautéed together for flavor.
Can I customize my Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach based on what you have available or prefer.
How long does it take to prepare Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
The total time for this recipe is about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Is Skillet Sausage and Zucchini gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is gluten-free as it uses Whole30 compliant ingredients without any added gluten.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Fully cooked sausages such as chicken or turkey sausage are great choices that keep the dish healthy while adding flavor.
Final Thoughts
Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit different tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Try this recipe today for a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is your go-to recipe for a quick, satisfying meal that bursts with flavor! This dish combines juicy sausage with fresh zucchini, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all sautéed to perfection in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re racing through a busy weeknight or hosting a casual gathering, this healthy one-pan meal is not only Whole30 compliant but also gluten-free and dairy-free. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis (cubed)
- 1 onion (cut into ¾ inch pieces)
- 1 bell pepper (any color, cut into ¾-inch pieces)
- 4 fully cooked sausages (sliced)
- Olive oil or avocado oil
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and sauté until browned (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from pan.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add remaining oil along with zucchini, onion, and bell pepper. Season with garlic powder, oregano, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté until vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
- Return the sausage to the skillet along with minced garlic. Stir to combine and cover for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 60mg