Ah, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort meals: the delightful Sausage and Veggies Skillet with Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts! This dish is my go-to for cozy weeknight dinners or when I need something hearty yet nutritious. There’s just something magical about combining savory sausages with sweet and nutty butternut squash and the slightly bitter charm of Brussels sprouts. It’s like a culinary warm hug!
I vividly remember the first time I made this dish. It was one of those rainy evenings when all I wanted was a comforting meal. I had a random assortment of veggies in my fridge and some sausages in the freezer. I threw everything together in a skillet, and lo and behold, it tasted better than I could have ever imagined! Now, this recipe has a permanent place in my meal rotation, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
What’s in Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
Let’s break down the deliciousness, shall we?
Sausages: The star of the show! You can use Italian sausage for a savory kick or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Both work beautifully here, but my personal favorite is the Italian for that extra flavor punch!
Butternut Squash: Creamy and slightly sweet, it adds an amazing texture and richness. Don’t worry about peeling and dicing it—trust me, it’s worth the effort for that fall flavors vibe.
Brussels Sprouts: These little gems are packed with nutrients and lend a delicious crunch and depth. Halving them lets them cook faster and mingle perfectly with the other ingredients.
Olive Oil: Essential for cooking, it adds a wonderful flavor. I usually go for extra virgin; it’s good for drizzling and cooking alike.
Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better! A key ingredient for that aromatic base.
Salt and Pepper: Classic but necessary! They enhance all the flavors in this comforting skillet.
Herbs (optional): Fresh or dried thyme or rosemary will make this dish sing, but feel free to omit if you’re not a fan or if you don’t have any on hand!
Is Sausage and Veggies Skillet Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and plenty of veggies.
Butternut Squash: Rich in vitamins A and C, plus fiber, it supports your immune system and digestion.
Brussels Sprouts: A fantastic source of antioxidants and vitamins K and C, they help keep inflammation at bay.
Sausages: While sausages can be higher in fat and sodium, choosing leaner options like chicken sausage can greatly reduce these concerns. It’s all about balance!
Remember, moderation is key. Pair this dish with a light salad if you want to keep things fresh and light.
Ingredients
– 4 sausages (Italian or chicken, your choice)
– 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs like thyme or rosemary
– Servings: 4
How to Make Sausage and Veggies Skillet?
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sausages to the skillet and cook until they’re nicely browned. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burned (trust me, no one likes burnt garlic!).
4. Now, add the diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs if you’re using them. Stir well to coat the veggies.
5. Cook those beauties until they are tender and beginning to caramelize, about 10-15 minutes. Give them a stir every now and then to keep things even.
6. Return the cooked sausages to the skillet and mix everything together. It’s like a family reunion in there!
7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully together.
8. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Sausage and Veggies Skillet!
Sizzling Suggestions for Serving
Want to elevate this dish? Here are a few ideas:
– Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the lovely juices.
– Top with some freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta for extra creaminess.
– Pair with a glass of white wine or a light beer for a complete meal.
Cooking doesn’t have to be daunting or time-consuming, and this Sausage and Veggies Skillet is proof! It’s such a simple yet satisfying dish that I know you’ll fall in love with just as I did. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your own twists on this recipe! Happy cooking!
