One-Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet: Your Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner
This Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet is a wonderfully easy one-pan weeknight dinner solution, crafted with flavorful turkey sausage, vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, and a rich pasta sauce. It’s designed for busy evenings, offering maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
Transform your dinner routine with this incredibly simple yet satisfying one-pan meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward preparation and the use of everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Imagine tender, sweet vegetables perfectly complemented by savory, juicy sausage, all coated in a hearty, rich tomato sauce. This combination creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s versatile enough to please any palate. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or enjoying it on its own for a low-carb option, this Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet delivers on taste and convenience.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of a variation my mom used to whip up when I was growing up. I completely understand why it was her go-to: it was incredibly quick to prepare, and even us notoriously picky eaters would clean our plates. It’s the ultimate hassle-free dinner that never disappoints, providing a delicious, homemade meal without hours spent in the kitchen. For those evenings when you need something fast, easy, and with virtually no messy cleanup, this skillet dinner is the perfect answer.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe
This Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a lifesaver for anyone seeking delicious, wholesome meals without the fuss. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortless One-Skillet Wonder: The entire meal comes together in a single frying pan, meaning you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your evening. From searing the sausage to simmering the sauce, every step happens in one convenient vessel. This makes cleanup a breeze, a major win on busy weeknights!
- Lightning-Fast Preparation: Say goodbye to lengthy cooking sessions. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s ready from start to finish in less than 30 minutes. It’s ideal for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a nutritious and delicious home-cooked meal for yourself or your family.
- Ideal for Smart Meal Prep: Looking to streamline your weekly menu? This recipe is a meal prep superstar. You can easily portion out individual servings into airtight containers, creating convenient, ready-to-go lunches for the entire work week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its delicious flavors and tender textures, making healthy eating effortless.
- Versatile and Customizable: This isn’t a rigid recipe; it’s a framework for culinary creativity! Easily swap out different types of sausage, experiment with various vegetables, or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences. It’s a dish that adapts to your pantry and your taste buds.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein from turkey sausage and a generous amount of vitamins from fresh bell peppers and onions, this meal is a balanced and satisfying option. The rich tomato sauce adds lycopene and depth of flavor, making it a healthy choice you can feel good about.
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Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
Crafting this delicious skillet meal requires just a handful of simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. Feel free to customize based on what’s in your pantry or your dietary preferences!
- Olive oil: This healthy fat forms the base of our cooking. While extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor, any neutral cooking oil like avocado oil, canola oil, or even vegetable oil will work perfectly. The goal is to get a nice sear on your sausage and sauté the vegetables.
- Turkey sausages: Lean turkey sausage is a fantastic choice for a lighter meal, but you can easily swap it for traditional Italian sausage (mild or hot, depending on your preference) or pork sausage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own homemade turkey sausage with ground turkey and a blend of spices like fennel seeds, garlic powder, and paprika for a truly custom flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a wonderful umami depth and meaty texture to the dish. However, this is a prime opportunity to clear out your fridge! Feel free to use any other hearty veggies you have on hand. Great alternatives include broccoli florets, sliced carrots, shredded cabbage, cauliflower florets, zucchini rounds, or crisp green beans. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Yellow onions: These provide a sweet, aromatic base once caramelized. White onions offer a sharper flavor, while red onions would add a beautiful color and slightly milder, sweeter taste when cooked. Any variety will yield delicious results.
- Green, yellow, and red bell peppers: Using a mix of bell peppers not only provides a spectrum of colors, making the dish visually appealing, but also offers a range of sweetness. Green peppers are slightly more bitter, while yellow and red are sweeter. If you only have one color on hand, that’s perfectly fine! You can also swap bell peppers for other robust vegetables like zucchini or eggplant if preferred.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers the best, most pungent flavor. However, if you’re in a rush, jarred minced garlic is a convenient shortcut that will still contribute essential aromatic notes to the dish. Don’t skip it, as garlic is crucial for depth of flavor!
- Red chili flakes: For those who love a little kick, red chili flakes add a welcome warmth. If you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to omit them entirely or use just half a teaspoon for a very mild hint of heat. You can also adjust the amount to your desired spice level.
- Jarred pasta sauce: A good quality jarred pasta sauce is the ultimate convenience ingredient, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Look for one with a robust tomato flavor and minimal added sugars. Alternatively, a can of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be used, seasoned with a pinch of sugar, basil, and oregano to create a simple, fresh tomato sauce base.
How to Master the One-Pan Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet
Creating this flavorful and hearty meal is straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps to bring this weeknight favorite to your table:
Step 1: Perfectly Cook the Sausage
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your turkey sausages to the pan. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. Achieving a good sear on the sausages adds a layer of rich flavor to the dish. Once cooked, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to cool slightly. Don’t worry about cleaning the pan yet – those delicious browned bits will contribute to the sauce!
Step 2: Slice the Cooled Sausage
Once the cooked sausages have cooled enough to handle comfortably, slice them into bite-sized “coins” or half-moon shapes. This makes them easier to eat and ensures they distribute evenly throughout the dish later. This step can often be done while your vegetables are cooking, helping to minimize your total prep time.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
Using the same frying pan (without wiping it clean, as those browned bits from the sausage add flavor), add the quartered mushrooms. Sauté them over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to brown. This process concentrates their earthy flavor and gives them a wonderful texture.
Step 4: Soften the Onions and Peppers
To the skillet with the mushrooms, add your sliced yellow onions and chopped bell peppers (green, yellow, and red for a colorful medley). Continue to cook the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes, stirring periodically, until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender-crisp. You want them softened but still retaining a slight bite.
Step 5: Integrate Remaining Ingredients and Flavor Boosters
Now it’s time to bring all the delicious components together. Return the sliced sausages to the skillet. Add the minced garlic, a teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and the red chili flakes (adjusting to your preferred spice level). Pour in the jarred pasta sauce, stirring everything gently to combine and coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve
Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sausages are fully heated through, the vegetables are perfectly tender, and the sauce is bubbling and fragrant. This short simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Once ready, remove the skillet from the heat, and your one-pan sausage, peppers, and onions meal is ready to be enjoyed! This simple method ensures a delicious and satisfying dinner with minimal fuss.
Recipe Tips and Delicious Variations!
Here are some of my top tips and exciting variations to elevate your Easy Sausage, Peppers and Onions Skillet:
- Prioritize Fresh Ingredients: For the most vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, always opt for fresh bell peppers and onions. Their natural sweetness and crispness truly shine in this dish. While frozen can work in a pinch, fresh is definitely superior.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: This is a crucial tip for successful skillet cooking! When you add too many ingredients at once, they steam instead of sear, preventing that lovely browning and flavor development. If your skillet isn’t large enough to give everything single-layer space, sauté the sausages and vegetables in batches to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets a beautiful sear.
- Utilize a Quality Non-Stick Skillet: A good quality non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is your best friend for this recipe. It prevents ingredients from sticking, ensures even cooking, and makes cleanup incredibly easy – which is one of the main appeals of a one-pan meal!
- Experiment with Protein Choices: While turkey sausage is a fantastic lean option, feel free to change the protein to suit your taste or what you have available. Chicken sausage, spicy Italian pork sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives can all be used. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the protein is cooked through.
- Introduce Creaminess: For a richer, more indulgent dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a swirl of cream cheese during the final cooking stage. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving also adds a delightful savory, salty finish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Tailor the heat to your preference! If you love a fiery kick, add extra crushed red pepper flakes or opt for a hot Italian sausage. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili flakes or omit them entirely. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also be used for a different kind of heat.
- Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil. These herbs add a burst of freshness and a touch of gourmet appeal that beautifully complements the rich tomato sauce and savory ingredients.
- Consider a Touch of Sweetness: Sometimes a tiny pinch of sugar (about 1/2 teaspoon) added to the pasta sauce can enhance the natural sweetness of the peppers and tomatoes, balancing the overall flavor profile, especially if your tomatoes are on the acidic side.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Skillet Meal
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying your Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet:
Is this dish suitable for a keto-friendly diet?
Absolutely! This dish can easily be adapted to fit a ketogenic lifestyle. The key is to select a low-carb sausage (check the labels, as some can contain hidden sugars or fillers) and to completely omit any starchy sides like rice, pasta, or bread. Serve it instead with cauliflower rice, a side salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or even enjoy it as a hearty meal on its own. With these adjustments, it perfectly aligns with a keto eating plan.
Can I prepare a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, certainly! This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily made vegetarian or even vegan. Simply swap the meat sausage for your favorite plant-based sausage alternatives – there are many delicious options available today. Alternatively, you can boost the heartiness with robust vegetables like extra mushrooms, chunks of eggplant, or firm tofu that has been pressed and cubed. These additions will absorb the rich flavors of the sauce and provide a satisfying texture, creating a delightful meat-free twist.
Is it possible to cook this dish in the oven instead of a skillet?
You most certainly can! Baking this dish in the oven is a fantastic hands-off alternative. To adapt, start by baking the raw sausages on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are mostly cooked through. Once slightly cooled, slice them into coins. Then, combine the sliced sausages with your chopped veggies (onions, bell peppers, mushrooms), minced garlic, salt & pepper, and pasta sauce on a large baking sheet. Toss everything to coat evenly. Bake the mixture for another 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, and the dish is heated through. This method creates a wonderful roasted flavor and makes for an equally easy cleanup.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice level. You can double the amount of red chili flakes used in the recipe, or opt for a hot Italian sausage from the start. A dash of cayenne pepper or a small amount of finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper added with the onions and bell peppers can also provide an extra fiery punch. Always adjust to your personal preference!
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Skillet Meal
This versatile Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize for any meal or preference. Here are some fantastic ideas to serve with your flavorful dish:
- Alongside Grains: For a hearty and satisfying meal, serve the skillet mixture over a bed of your favorite grains. Popular choices include fluffy white rice, nutritious brown rice, or a light and airy quinoa. For a specific twist, try Spanish rice to complement the savory flavors. If you’re aiming for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent, healthy substitute that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Tossed with Pasta: Transform this skillet into a complete pasta dish! Simply cook your favorite pasta noodles (penne, spaghetti, or rotini work wonderfully), then toss them directly into the skillet with the sausage and vegetable mixture. The pasta will absorb the rich tomato sauce, creating a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for the whole family.
- As a Satisfying Side Dish: The skillet itself is quite substantial, but it can also be part of a larger meal. Enjoy it on its own for a lighter dinner, or pair it with other complementary sides such as roasted baby potatoes, a fresh green salad, or a vibrant quinoa salad for added texture and nutrients.
- A Hearty Sandwich: For a fun and informal meal, spoon the warm sausage and pepper mixture into your favorite sandwich bun or hero roll. Add a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese, and let it melt slightly for an irresistible, flavor-packed “hoagie” that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.
- With Crusty Bread: A simple yet effective way to enjoy this dish is with a side of crusty bread. Use it to soak up every last drop of the delicious, savory sauce. Garlic bread or a fresh baguette would be ideal choices.
Storing and Reheating Your Skillet Meal
This Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping, thanks to its excellent storage and reheating capabilities:
Storing: Once cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to airtight containers. These will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Freezing: For longer storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion the cooled meal into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: From the fridge, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the top of a single serving to help maintain moisture, then microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even warming. If reheating from frozen, microwave for 6-7 minutes, stirring well at the halfway mark, until piping hot. You can also reheat larger batches in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
More Easy One-Pan Skillet Recipes
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of this Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of our favorite easy one-pan skillet recipes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want delicious food without the fuss!
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French Onion Chicken Skillet
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Easiest Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
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30-Minute Italian Chicken Skillet
Recommended Meal Prep Tools
To make your meal prepping experience even smoother and more efficient, here are some highly recommended tools that will simplify your kitchen routine:
- These glass meal prep bowls are absolutely essential for safely storing and reheating your delicious sausage and peppers. Glass containers are not only durable and environmentally friendly but also ensure your food heats evenly in the microwave without any concerns about plastics.
- I source all my high-quality meats, including delicious sausages, from Butcher Box. Their convenient service delivers ethically sourced, premium cuts of meat right to your door, perfectly frozen and ready to use. It’s a fantastic way to ensure you always have quality protein on hand for recipes like this.
Easy Sausage, Peppers and Onions Recipe
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Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 turkey sausages (1 lb of sausage)
- 1 (8oz) package mushrooms, quartered
- 2 yellow onions, sliced
- 1 each green, yellow and red pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp each Salt & pepper
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (cut in half or leave out if you don’t like spicy)
- 1/2 cup jarred pasta sauce
Instructions
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Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large frying pan. Add turkey sausages and cook for 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and slice into coins when cool enough to handle.
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Without wiping the pan clean (those browned bits are flavor!), add mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until their juices start to release, about 5 minutes. Then, add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
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Return the sliced sausages to the pan. Add the minced garlic, salt & pepper, and red chili flakes. Pour in the pasta sauce. Stir everything together well and cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and ensuring all ingredients are heated through.
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Divide the delicious sausage, peppers, and onions among 4 meal prep bowls for future enjoyment or serve immediately for a satisfying dinner. Leftovers will last up to 5 days in the fridge – enjoy!
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Notes
Feel free to swap out the bell peppers and mushrooms for any other vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas.
For even quicker preparation, chop up all your vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Store any leftover portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For reheating, simply microwave for about 2 minutes on high, adding a splash of water if needed.
This recipe is freezer-friendly! Freeze it for up to 3 months in individual portions. When reheating from frozen, microwave for approximately 6-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition
There you have it – a wonderfully flavorful, incredibly easy, and highly versatile one-pan meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Skillet offers a comforting, nutritious, and convenient dinner solution. Enjoy the simplicity, savor the rich flavors, and make weeknight meals a joyful experience!