If you’re craving a dinner that packs bold Cajun flavor and only needs one pan, this Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage is your perfect weeknight hero. Sizzling slices of spicy andouille mingle with sweet bell peppers, tender squash, pops of juicy tomato, and aromatic garlic, all swirled together with robust spices for a meal that’s as colorful as it is comforting. It’s a recipe that brings everyone around the table in anticipation, whether you serve it solo as a low-carb feast or pile it high over fluffy rice. Let’s make your kitchen smell amazing with this vibrant skillet dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple doesn’t mean boring! Each ingredient in this Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage helps build layers of flavor, brings eye-catching color, or adds texture that keeps every forkful exciting. Here’s what you’ll need (plus a few handy tips for each).
- Olive oil: A rich start that adds depth and helps everything brown nicely.
- Andouille sausage: Smoky, spicy, and robust—this is the star for unmistakable Cajun flavor.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of sweetness and a burst of color.
- Yellow bell pepper: Brings extra vibrancy and a mellow, fruity note.
- Red onion: Offers mild sharpness that softens beautifully as it cooks.
- Garlic: Just two cloves, but boy do they infuse warmth into every bite.
- Zucchini: Fresh, green crunch that soaks up the spices and sausage drippings.
- Yellow squash: Adds delicate earthiness and sunny color.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Use drained tomatoes for a sauce that clings, not pools; try fire-roasted for even more smoky goodness.
- Smoked paprika: Turns up the smokiness and deepens the dish’s color.
- Dried oregano: A pinch for lovable earthy undertones that give a nod to classic Cajun herbs.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Add if you like a little extra heat.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste for a balanced finish.
- Fresh parsley: This simple garnish wakes everything up with freshness and a touch of green.
How to Make Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage
Step 1: Sear the Andouille Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your andouille sausage slices in a single layer, letting each piece sizzle and brown for about 4 to 5 minutes. This caramelization is where heaps of flavor develop. Once they’re beautifully golden, scoop the sausage onto a plate and keep those flavorful drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onion
Toss the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the red onion into the same hot skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies are softened and shimmering. They’ll soak up all those sausage juices, creating a sweet and savory base for your Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Zucchini, and Squash
Stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash. Cook for another 3 minutes, just until the vegetables are tender but still have a bit of bite. This keeps your Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage fresh and lively, never mushy or overdone.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the drained diced tomatoes, followed by smoked paprika, dried oregano, and, if you’re daring, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Don’t forget a gentle shake of salt and black pepper. This is where everything comes together—a quick stir is all you need to start the melding process.
Step 5: Bring Back the Sausage and Simmer
Return the sautéed andouille sausage to the skillet and mix everything until combined. Reduce the heat to medium and let it all simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. As the flavors mingle, the veggies become succulent, and the andouille enriches the whole mix with spicy, smoky juices. Finish by showering fresh parsley over the top just before serving.
How to Serve Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage
Garnishes
A generous dusting of fresh chopped parsley is classic, adding freshness and brilliant color. For a real Louisiana flourish, consider a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions or toss on shredded Parmesan for a subtle, savory touch on your Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a knockout over fluffy white rice, nutty quinoa, or buttery mashed potatoes, each one soaking up the smoky tomato juices. For low-carb nights, spoon it over cauliflower rice or even a simple bed of baby spinach for a lighter spin. A hunk of crusty baguette is wonderful for mopping up saucy bits!
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage into warm toasted hoagie rolls for a hearty sandwich or layer it on top of cheesy polenta for a Southern-inspired bowl. You can even spoon leftovers over scrambled eggs for a jazzy breakfast burrito filling—the possibilities are honestly endless and fun to explore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay perfectly tasty in your refrigerator for up to 4 days—ideal for meal preppers.
Freezing
Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as you can, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and freshness.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist. The microwave also works in a pinch—about 2 minutes, stirring halfway, often does the trick. Just don’t overheat or the veggies may get too soft.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While sausage skillet with andouille sausage is known for its signature smoky-spicy flavor, you can substitute kielbasa, chorizo, or even a milder smoked sausage if that’s what you have on hand. The overall vibe will shift slightly, but the recipe is still a winner.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle heat thanks to the andouille sausage and optional red pepper flakes, but you can dial it down (or up!) to suit your palate. Simply omit the crushed red pepper or use a milder sausage if you prefer less spice.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, eggplant, or chickpeas for protein. For a smoky touch reminiscent of andouille, stir in a bit more smoked paprika or use a plant-based smoked sausage to keep the dish’s character intact.
What’s the best way to cut prep time?
Grab pre-sliced sausage and pre-chopped veggies from your grocery store. Since this sausage skillet with andouille sausage comes together fast, having your ingredients ready to go makes it practically effortless.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Use a large, wide skillet (or even a Dutch oven) to ensure everything browns nicely and the veggies don’t steam. Other than that, just double each ingredient and you’re all set to feed a hungry group.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a flavorful, fuss-free meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, give this Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage a whirl. It’s bold, hearty, and always hits the spot—just the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Happy cooking!
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Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage is a flavorful and hearty one-pan meal that combines spicy sausage with a medley of colorful vegetables for a satisfying Cajun-inspired dish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and black pepper to taste
- fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredients:
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
- Cook the sausage: Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and red onion, sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash, cooking for another 3 minutes until just tender.
- Combine the ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Simmer and garnish: Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until heated through and flavors meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be served on its own for a lighter meal or over rice, quinoa, or pasta for something heartier.
- For a smoky twist, use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular canned tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 930 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
