When it comes to creating a dish that is hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor, few meals compete with a sizzling Italian sausage and veggie skillet. Bursting with color, loaded with nutrients, and infused with bold, savory flavor, this one-pan recipe makes dinner both delicious and effortless. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight meal or meal prepping for the week ahead, this low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein dish checks all the boxes.
Essential Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Veggie Skillet
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and versatility. All you need are fresh vegetables, high-quality sausage, and simple seasonings.
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
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1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
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1 yellow squash, sliced
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1 red onion, sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into chunks, until browned and cooked through, about 7–8 minutes. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed. Toss in the bell peppers, zucchini, squash, and red onion. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Add garlic and cherry tomatoes to the pan. Stir for 2 more minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot as a standalone meal or over rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for added substance.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Meal
Quick and Easy
From fridge to table in under 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want something homemade and satisfying.
One Pan, Minimal Cleanup
All the cooking happens in a single skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your evening.
Nutritious and Balanced
Packed with colorful veggies and lean protein, this dish offers a nutrient-dense, low-carb option that keeps you full and energized without weighing you down.
Diet-Friendly and Customizable
This recipe is naturally:
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Low-carb and keto-friendly
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Gluten-free
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Dairy-free (unless you top with cheese)
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Whole30 and Paleo compliant (if sausage is sugar- and nitrate-free)
Customize it to your taste:
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Add broccoli, mushrooms, or asparagus for extra greens.
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Swap sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or plant-based sausage for different protein profiles.
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Sprinkle with Parmesan or mozzarella for added indulgence.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Italian sausage and veggie skillet reheats beautifully and is perfect for batch cooking:
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Storage: Keep in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
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Freezer Friendly: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over steamed cauliflower rice, zoodles, or brown rice for a complete meal.
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Pair with a simple green salad and balsamic vinaigrette.
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Add a side of garlic bread (for non-low-carb eaters) for a comforting Italian touch.
Tasty Variations to Try
Tuscan-Inspired Skillet
Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and white beans with a splash of cream or broth for a Tuscan-style twist.
Spicy Mediterranean Mix
Use hot Italian sausage and toss in kalamata olives, oregano, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
Cheesy Bake Version
Transfer cooked mixture into a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella or provolone, and broil for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Health Benefits at a Glance
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Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
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Zucchini and squash provide fiber, potassium, and hydration
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Cherry tomatoes contain lycopene, great for heart health
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Italian sausage adds satisfying protein and flavor with minimal prep
Conclusion
The Italian sausage and veggie skillet is everything a great meal should be—fast, flavorful, filling, and full of nutrition. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a healthy dinner solution that doesn’t skimp on comfort. With endless customization options and the ability to prep ahead, this skillet recipe is a dependable staple for any lifestyle or diet. Once you try it, you’ll come back to it again and again.
