Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Then look no further! This easy ground sausage skillet dinner is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a complete one-pan wonder, packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, black beans, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded beautifully. This slow simmering develops a deeper, richer flavor.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty skillet dinner is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Veggie variations: Experiment with different vegetables! Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a nutritional boost.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a large batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy ground sausage skillet dinner is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both satisfying and simple to prepare. It's a perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you need a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal on the table fast. It’s a true testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking, offering a delicious and satisfying dish without sacrificing time or effort. Enjoy!