Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner recipe that screams autumn? Look no further! This sausage and pumpkin skillet is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, combining the heartiness of Italian sausage with the warmth of pumpkin. It's a fantastic easy recipe, ideal for busy weeknights, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices. This homemade cooking masterpiece is packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup, making it a true winner in the world of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, sage, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmering and Serving
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sausage and Pumpkin Skillet:
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit them entirely. A dash of smoked paprika adds another layer of delicious depth.
- Add some veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the sautéing stage.
- Make it creamy: For a richer, creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
- Leftovers are great: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
- Chicken Sausage: Substitute chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This sausage and pumpkin skillet is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to make and perfect for a comforting fall meal. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it a true staple in your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!