If you’re craving a dish that bursts with smoky, savory flavors and vibrant colors, this Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe will absolutely wow your taste buds. It’s a quick and hearty dish that combines the spicy kick of andouille sausage with fresh, crisp vegetables, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners, this recipe brings together bold spices, colorful veggies, and satisfying sausage for a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is the secret to this recipe’s brilliance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether to add depth with spice, sweetness with colorful vegetables, or that irresistible sausage savor. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this skillet to life.
- 12 oz andouille sausage: Choose a smoky, spicy andouille that will infuse the dish with bold flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use good-quality olive oil for sautéing and a subtle fruity base.
- 1 medium red bell pepper: Adds a crisp texture and bright sweetness.
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper: Brings cheerful color contrast and fresh flavor.
- 1 medium zucchini: Cut into half-moons for a tender bite and vibrant green hue.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved to provide juicy bursts and a touch of acidity.
- 1 small red onion: Sliced thin to add mild pungency and a bit of crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The heart of the smoky flavor that ties everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: For an earthy, aromatic complexity.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all ingredients.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled last for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
How to Make Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Andouille Sausage
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook it until it’s beautifully browned on both sides. This process not only seals in the sausage’s flavors but also creates those irresistible caramelized edges. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in your red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and minced garlic. Cooking the vegetables in the leftover sausage juices enriches their natural sweetness and gives the dish a harmonious flavor. Sauté them for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften just enough to remain tender with a slight bite, ensuring a satisfying texture.
Step 3: Add the Spices
This is where the magic really happens. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and dried thyme, followed by salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together well to coat the vegetables evenly. The smoked paprika lends a deep, smoky aroma, perfectly complementing the sausage, while thyme adds a subtle herbal note that enhances the overall complexity.
Step 4: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes
Now, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, letting them cook for another 2 minutes. This step softens them slightly and causes their skins to blister, adding a bright burst of flavor and a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the sausage and spices.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Finally, return the browned sausage slices back to the skillet. Toss everything gently to combine and heat through for a couple of minutes. This reunion ensures every bite is full of the luscious flavors you’ve built up, making the dish irresistibly hearty and satisfying.
How to Serve Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled just before serving adds a pop of green color and a fresh, slightly peppery taste that brightens the skillet. If you want an extra touch, a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can elevate the dish without overpowering it.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices, fluffy rice for a comforting base, or a crisp green salad to lighten the meal. Each side provides a perfect balance to the bold flavors of the sausage and vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet as a filling for warm tortillas or pita pockets, turning it into a handheld treat. Alternatively, layer the mixture over creamy polenta for a rustic, elegant meal that’s sure to impress guests or make an everyday dinner feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a convenient leftover for busy days when you want a quick meal bursting with flavor.
Freezing
This skillet also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and taste upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps maintain the vegetables’ moisture and keeps the sausage juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of andouille?
Absolutely! While andouille sausage gives this dish its signature smoky spice, you can substitute it with other smoked or spicy sausages like chorizo or kielbasa depending on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well and reheats quickly. Make a big batch, and you have flavorful lunches or dinners ready for several days.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible — try adding mushrooms, spinach, or even corn to customize it based on what you have or what’s in season.
How spicy is the Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe?
The dish has a moderate spice level, thanks to the andouille sausage and smoked paprika. If you prefer milder flavors, choose a less spicy sausage and reduce the paprika slightly.
What can I serve this with to make it a complete meal?
Serving it with grains like rice, quinoa, or creamy polenta adds heartiness. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed greens to round out the meal with some extra nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe is one of those gems that feels like a warm hug on a plate — packed with bold flavors, textures, and colors that delight every sense. It’s quick to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, making it an excellent go-to for anyone looking to add a bit of zest and comfort to their weeknight dinners. Go ahead and give this recipe a try — I promise it will become one of your favorites too!
Print
Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A vibrant and savory Summer Sausage Skillet featuring spicy andouille sausage sautéed with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices, perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Sausage and Oil
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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 and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Brown Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Spices: Stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the vegetables are coated evenly with the spices.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they are slightly blistered.
- Combine Sausage and Vegetables: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. Heat through thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use a high-quality andouille sausage for the best smoky and spicy flavors.
- Feel free to substitute zucchini with yellow squash or add mushrooms for more variety.
- You can adjust the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- This skillet meal pairs well with steamed rice, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
