Sausage and Broccoli Skillet Simple Dinner Delight
Looking for a quick, tasty meal that packs a punch? My Sausage and Broccoli Skillet is a perfect choice! In just one pan, you can combine hearty Italian sausage with fresh broccoli and vibrant veggies. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Ready to make your dinner stress-free? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and Parmesan creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: With plenty of broccoli and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy sausage and adding more red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion
– 3 cloves garlic
– 1 red bell pepper
Seasonings and Garnishes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Equipment
– Large skillet
– Spatula
– Measuring spoons and cups
The main ingredients for this dish are simple and fresh. You need Italian sausage, which brings great flavor. You can pick either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. The onion and garlic bring a sweet and savory taste, while the red bell pepper adds a hint of sweetness.
For seasonings, olive oil helps cook everything beautifully. Red pepper flakes give a touch of heat, but you can skip them if you prefer less spice. Always season with salt and pepper to make the flavors pop. The Parmesan cheese melts and adds a creamy richness, and fresh parsley finishes the dish with a fresh touch.
You will need a large skillet, a spatula for stirring, and measuring spoons and cups to get your ingredients just right. Having these tools ready makes cooking smooth and fun.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Sausage
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Once the oil shimmers, take your Italian sausage. Remove the casing carefully.
3. Crumble the sausage into the skillet. Stir frequently with a spatula.
4. Cook the sausage until it turns brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Sautéing the Vegetables
1. When the sausage is browned, add the thinly sliced onion.
2. Next, toss in the red bell pepper strips. Stir to mix.
3. Add the minced garlic for flavor. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Cook until the onion and pepper become tender and fragrant.
Cooking the Broccoli
1. Gently fold in the fresh broccoli florets. Stir everything together.
2. Pour in about ¼ cup of water. This adds steam for the broccoli.
3. Cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes.
4. The broccoli should turn bright green and stay crisp.
5. After cooking, uncover the skillet. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
6. Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir gently to combine.
7. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure your sausage is cooked through, use a spatula to break it apart in the skillet. Cook it until it turns brown and no pink remains, about 5 to 7 minutes. Timing is key when adding each ingredient. Add the onion and red bell pepper right after the sausage. Sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes before adding garlic. This step builds a deep flavor base.
When you add broccoli, pour in ¼ cup of water. This creates steam that helps cook the broccoli evenly. Cover the skillet for 5 to 6 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a lighter option, use chicken or turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage. Both choices work well and keep the dish tasty. For last-minute additions, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or spinach. They add color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish hot in shallow bowls. This allows the vibrant colors to shine. For a nice touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top and add a twist of black pepper. You can also pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Depending on your preference for spice, select either mild or spicy Italian sausage to best suit your taste buds.
- Perfect Broccoli Texture: Avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should be bright green and tender-crisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic just before the vegetables to maximize its aromatic qualities without burning it.
- Garnish for Presentation: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor, making it more appealing.
Variations
Spicy Twist
Want more heat in your Sausage and Broccoli Skillet? You can add more red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon and taste as you go. Adjust it based on your heat preference. You can also use spicy sausage varieties. Look for Italian sausage labeled as hot or spicy. This adds a bold flavor and a kick to your dish.
Vegetarian Version
If you want a meatless option, substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives. Look for veggie sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add more vegetables to enrich the dish. Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. These choices will add color, flavor, and nutrition, making it just as delightful.
One-Pan Meal
For a complete meal, think about adding pasta or rice. Cook your pasta in the same skillet after the sausage and veggies. This saves time and adds flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly. If you add rice, ensure it cooks through. Follow package instructions for best results. This method makes your meal filling and easy to serve.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup. You can store the dish in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Options
The best way to reheat this dish is on the stove. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to warm it evenly. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. If you microwave it, add a splash of water to keep the broccoli crisp. This will help avoid sogginess.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze this dish. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It is quick and easy. Here are the pros and cons:
– Pros: Frozen broccoli is convenient and has a long shelf life. It can save time.
– Cons: Frozen broccoli may be softer than fresh. It can lose some crunch when cooked.
How long does it take to cook sausage?
Cooking sausage usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Here are some general times for different types:
– Italian Sausage (ground): 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
– Links: 10 to 15 minutes, turning often, until cooked through.
– Chicken or Turkey Sausage: 7 to 10 minutes, also until cooked through.
What can I serve with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet?
This skillet dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the flavors.
– Pasta: Use a simple pasta for a filling meal.
– Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch.
This blog covered how to make a delicious sausage and broccoli skillet. We explored the key ingredients, cooking steps, tips, and variations for customization. You can make it spicy or vegetarian, or even turn it into a full meal with pasta. Store leftovers properly and reheat them for the best taste.
Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and feel free to experiment! Happy cookin
Sizzling Sausage & Broccoli Delight
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- to taste salt
- to taste freshly cracked black pepper
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- for garnish fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Carefully remove the casing from the Italian sausage and crumble it directly into the skillet. Cook the sausage, stirring frequently with a spatula, until it is nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is browned, add the sliced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet, followed by the minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Next, gently fold in the broccoli florets, stirring everything together. Pour in about ¼ cup of water to introduce some steam for the broccoli. Immediately cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender yet crisp.
- After 5 to 6 minutes, uncover the skillet. Season the mixture with red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese across the top and stir gently until combined.
- Allow the dish to cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the entire dish is heated through.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your delicious creation with fresh chopped parsley right before serving.
