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Summer Dinner Sausage and Veggies Skillet – Colorful, Juicy, and Full of Fresh Flavor

When summer evenings call for something quick, vibrant, and satisfying, this Sausage and Veggies Skillet is the perfect answer. Packed with juicy beef or chicken sausage, crisp bell peppers, tender zucchini, and sweet corn, this one-pan dinner celebrates everything we love about summer cooking: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup. This dish is ideal for warm nights when you want a hearty meal without turning on the oven for too long. The vegetables stay bright and slightly crisp, the sausage brings deep savory flavor, and everything comes together in one skillet for a meal that feels rustic, wholesome, and comforting. If you enjoy summer dinners, easy skillet meals, and healthy comfort food, this recipe is a must-have in your weekly rotation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Prepare and measure all ingredients before cooking.
Protein
  • 14 –16 oz beef or chicken sausage sliced into rounds
Vegetables
  • 2 bell peppers any color, sliced
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
  • 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
  • ½ red onion sliced (optional but recommended)
Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped
Ingredient Notes:
  • Beef or chicken sausage keeps this dish pork-free while still hearty.
  • Zucchini and bell peppers add freshness and color.
  • Corn brings natural sweetness that balances the savory sausage.

Equipment

  • To prepare this summer sausage and veggies skillet, you’ll need:
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Serving platter or bowls
  • Tip: A wide skillet helps vegetables caramelize instead of steaming.

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked summer sausage and veggie skillet.
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
  1. Add sliced beef or chicken sausage.
  2. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  3. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
  1. In the same skillet, add bell peppers and red onion.
  2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Add zucchini and corn.
  4. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, stirring gently.
Step 4: Season
  1. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables.
  2. Stir to coat evenly.
Step 5: Combine
  1. Return sausage to the skillet.
  2. Toss everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through and lightly caramelized.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
  1. Remove from heat.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
  3. Serve hot.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat
Or microwave in short intervals
Tip: Add a small splash of water or olive oil when reheating to keep vegetables tender.
🥄 Variations
Customize your sausage and veggies skillet with ease:
Spicy Summer Skillet
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper
Mediterranean Style
Add olives and fresh herbs
Low-Carb Option
This dish is naturally low-carb
Extra Veggie Boost
Add mushrooms or green beans
Cheesy Finish
Sprinkle with grated cheese just before serving
❓ 10 FAQs
What type of sausage should I use?
Beef or chicken sausage works best.
Is this recipe pork-free?
Yes, it uses no pork or bacon.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just thaw and drain first.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it’s balanced with protein and vegetables.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Does zucchini get soggy?
Not if cooked over medium-high heat.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and colorful.
What can I serve with it?
Rice, potatoes, or a simple salad.
Can I grill this instead?
Yes, grill sausage and veggies separately, then combine.
🏁 Conclusion
This summer sausage and veggies skillet is everything a warm-weather dinner should be: fresh, fast, colorful, and satisfying. With juicy sausage, crisp vegetables, and bold seasoning, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just want an easy summer meal, this recipe is reliable, flexible, and endlessly delicious. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.