Description
Sausage & Veggie Skillet Dinner
Ingredients
1 lb sausage links, sliced into rounds
1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
2 cups baby carrots
1 large apple, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook Sausage:
Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage rounds and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Veggies:
In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp of olive oil. Toss in Brussels sprouts, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season & Add Apples:
Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in diced apples and cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is tender.
Combine & Serve:
Return sausage to the skillet and mix well. Cook for 2 more minutes to combine flavors.
Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. Start by prepping all ingredients: slice sausage, halve Brussels sprouts, dice the apple, and mince garlic. Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even cooking. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add sausage in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a deep brown sear. Remove sausage, leaving drippings. Add the remaining oil, then the Brussels sprouts (cut-side down) and carrots. Let them sear for 2 minutes before stirring. Add garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Proceed with seasoning and adding apples as directed, ensuring the apples go in last to prevent mushiness.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is versatile. For a complete low-carb dinner, serve it directly from the pan. To make it more substantial, spoon it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy quinoa. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices. A light, crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness. For a festive touch, garnish with not only parsley but also a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
How-to Summary
Quickly brown sliced sausage in a skillet and set aside. In the same pan, sauté halved Brussels sprouts and carrots until they begin to soften. Add garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in diced apple and cook briefly. Return sausage to the skillet, heat through, and garnish with fresh parsley. A complete, flavorful meal in one pan in about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely. Italian chicken sausage, spicy andouille, or even plant-based sausages work well. Adjust cooking time as needed and be mindful of salt content if using pre-seasoned links.
How do I prevent the apples from becoming too soft?
Add them in the final 3-4 minutes of cooking. Using a firmer apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith also helps them hold their shape.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Note that the apples will soften upon reheating.
What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?
Broccoli florets, chopped bell peppers, or sliced zucchini are excellent substitutes. Add quicker-cooking veggies like zucchini towards the end of the sauté step.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture of the apples and Brussels sprouts may change slightly upon thawing and reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning the sausage and vegetables; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing and browning, not steaming. Do not add the apples too early, as they will turn mushy. Ensure your Brussels sprouts are halved evenly so they cook at the same rate. Finally, do not skip the step of deglazing the pan with a splash of broth or apple cider vinegar if bits are sticking, as this adds incredible flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
This Sausage & Veggie Skillet Dinner is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight, delivering minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The combination of savory sausage, hearty vegetables, and sweet apples creates a perfectly balanced meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try tonight for a stress-free dinner that everyone will enjoy.