Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and colorful veggies all in one pan, you’re going to adore this Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe. It’s an easy, hearty skillet meal that perfectly marries the smoky spice of andouille sausage with sweet bell peppers, fresh zucchini, and juicy cherry tomatoes. This recipe not only comes together quickly but delivers satisfying layers of taste and texture, making it a true favorite for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe just right is all about choosing simple but vibrant ingredients that work together harmoniously. Each component adds its own flair, whether it’s the spicy sausage, the sweetness of the peppers, or the fresh zing of herbs, making every bite a delightful experience.
- 12 oz andouille sausage: Use smoky, flavorful sausage sliced into rounds for the perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding rich, silky texture to the veggies and sausage.
- 1 medium red bell pepper: Adds a bright sweetness and vibrant red color to the dish.
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper: Complements the red pepper with more sweetness and sunny color.
- 1 medium zucchini: Offers a fresh, tender contrast when sliced into half-moons.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Burst of juiciness and slight acidity that balances the richness of the sausage.
- 1 small red onion: Adds a slight sharpness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Mincing fresh garlic gives the dish an irresistible aroma and savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses smoky warmth that enhances both sausage and veggies.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings subtle earthy notes to the skillet.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste to bring all elements into balance.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled at the end for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
How to Make Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your sliced andouille sausage and cook until both sides turn beautifully browned and slightly crispy. This step seals in the sausage’s smoky flavor and gives it a wonderful texture. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside while you cook the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Lay your sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini half-moons, red onion, and minced garlic into the same skillet. Cooking them in the leftover sausage oil ensures every vegetable soaks up that rich flavor. Sauté until the veggies start to soften, usually about 5 to 6 minutes — just enough to keep a little bite and freshness.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Here comes the magic moment where you stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. These spices coat the vegetables evenly and deepen the flavor profile, bringing warmth and subtle earthiness that perfectly complements the andouille sausage.
Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Now toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional two minutes. The tomatoes will blister slightly and release a bit of their juicy sweetness, adding beautiful pops of color and a fresh contrast to the smoky sausage and earthy spices.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and toss everything together until heated through. This step allows all the flavors to mingle and ensures each forkful has a taste of both sausage and sautéed vegetables. Right before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley to brighten the dish with its vibrant, herbaceous note.
How to Serve Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all you need for a garnish—it adds a lovely fresh, green pop and a subtle herbal aroma that lifts the entire dish.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread to soak up any juicy bits, a fluffy bed of rice to make it more substantial, or even simple roasted potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe alongside a crisp green salad and place the skillet directly on the table for a rustic, shared dining experience. You could also spoon it over creamy polenta or atop buttery grits for a southern-inspired feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making your next meal even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for later, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. This method helps the sausage stay juicy and the vegetables retain their slight crispness. Avoid microwaving for best results.
FAQs
Can I use another type of sausage?
Absolutely! While andouille sausage brings a fantastic smoky kick, you can substitute with kielbasa, chorizo, or even Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the sausage you choose doesn’t contain gluten additives. Always check labels to be sure.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, asparagus, or even corn to customize the skillet to your liking and take advantage of seasonal produce.
What can I serve this with?
This skillet is great on its own for a light meal or paired with sides like rice, crusty bread, or a simple green salad to round out your dinner.
How spicy is the dish?
The andouille sausage provides a gentle smoky heat, but the dish is not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the heat by choosing milder or spicier sausage or adding chili flakes if you love extra kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a one-pan meal that’s quick, flavorful, and full of colorful, fresh ingredients. The Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe delivers all that and more, making it an easy go-to for any occasion. I hope you try it soon and find it as comforting and exciting as I do—happy cooking!
Print
Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant and hearty Summer Sausage Skillet featuring flavorful andouille sausage sautéed with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This quick and easy one-pan meal combines smoky, savory sausage with tender vegetables for a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
Vegetables
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the sausage and vegetables.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced andouille sausage to the hot skillet, cooking until browned on both sides. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside to retain its flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini half-moons, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes until they begin to soften and release their natural flavors.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables, stirring well to evenly coat all the ingredients with the spices.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they are slightly blistered and softened.
- Combine Sausage and Vegetables: Return the browned andouille sausage to the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook until the sausage is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the smoked paprika.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.
- Feel free to substitute andouille sausage with kielbasa or chorizo for different flavor variations.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the sausage used contains no gluten additives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
