Skillet Sausage and Vegetables Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed to serve 5 people. Ingredient amounts can be adjusted proportionally, but cooking times and steps remain consistent. Note that scaling recipes may affect texture or flavor.

• 1 pound red potatoes, halved or quartered if larger than 2 inches
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound fully cooked chicken apple sausage, sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 red onion, sliced vertically
• 1 1/2 cups sliced bell peppers, mixed colors
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown, about 15 minutes.
3. Add the sliced sausage and red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
4. Stir in the red onion, bell peppers, and broccoli. Cook for about 3 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes crisp-tender.
5. Add the minced garlic and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then let it cook until most of the liquid evaporates.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy the medley of flavors.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 358
• Total Fat: 16g (20% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% DV)
• Cholesterol: 85mg (28% DV)
• Sodium: 759mg (33% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 27g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% DV)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 26g (53% DV)
• Vitamin C: 92mg (102% DV)
• Calcium: 57mg (4% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (15% DV)
• Potassium: 1027mg (22% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Individual needs may vary. Nutrient data may not be available for all ingredients. For medically restrictive diets, consult your healthcare professional before preparation.

History and Origins of Skillet Sausage and Vegetables

The dish known today as Skillet Sausage and Vegetables has its roots in traditional American home cooking, particularly in the mid-20th century when one-pan meals became popular for their convenience and minimal cleanup. It evolved from European sausage-and-potato combinations, brought to the United States by immigrants from Germany, Poland, and Italy. Over time, the recipe adapted to local ingredients, incorporating bell peppers, broccoli, and chicken-apple sausage, which provide a modern twist on a classic comfort food.

Regional Characteristics

While this recipe is widely enjoyed across the U.S., it carries subtle regional variations. In the Midwest, potatoes are often parboiled and roasted with the sausage to create a hearty, filling dish suitable for colder climates. In the South, smoked sausages and a touch of spice, like red pepper flakes, are preferred, highlighting bold flavors. Coastal areas might include more fresh vegetables or seafood-based sausages, demonstrating the flexibility of this skillet meal in reflecting local tastes and seasonal availability.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike a traditional sausage casserole or a sausage stir-fry, Skillet Sausage and Vegetables emphasizes simplicity and speed while retaining texture contrasts. The vegetables are typically crisp-tender, not overcooked, and the sausages are lightly browned rather than fully baked into a stew. This allows the flavors of each ingredient to remain distinct, creating a balance of sweetness from bell peppers, earthiness from potatoes, and savory notes from the sausage. Unlike a pasta-based dish, it is lighter and lower in carbohydrates.

Typical Serving Occasions

This skillet dish is commonly served as a family dinner, often alongside fresh bread or a side salad. Its particularly popular for weeknight meals due to its quick preparation and minimal cleanup. Additionally, it can be served at casual gatherings, potlucks, or even brunch, especially when using breakfast-style sausages. Its one-pan nature makes it both practical and visually appealing when presented straight from the skillet to the table.

Interesting Facts

• Chicken-apple sausage, often used in this recipe, originated in the U.S. in the late 20th century as a milder alternative to traditional pork sausage, blending savory and sweet flavors.
• The use of a single skillet helps retain nutrients in vegetables compared to boiling them separately, making this dish a relatively healthy option.
• Red pepper flakes, though optional, are a nod to Southern influences, adding warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• The dish has inspired numerous variations worldwide, including vegetarian versions using plant-based sausages or different root vegetables.
• Its adaptability allows it to pair with a variety of beverages, from casual sodas to light wines, making it a versatile choice for many occasions.

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