Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Ham and Sausage Skillet is the perfect quick dinner idea, packed with deliciousness and surprisingly healthy. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both easy and impressive, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend supper. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to a truly satisfying dish. Get ready to discover one of the best recipes you'll make all year!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked ham, diced (about 1 inch cubes)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Brown the sausage: Add the breakfast sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease if needed.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the diced ham, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the liquid has slightly reduced. Stir occasionally.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ham and Sausage Skillet:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of sausage and ham, you might need to cook them in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Add vegetables: Expand this easy recipe by incorporating other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this hearty skillet with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Skillet: Use spicy Italian sausage for a fiery kick.
- Cheesy Ham and Sausage Skillet: Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Creamy Ham and Sausage Skillet: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
This Ham and Sausage Skillet is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It's a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy!