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Easy One-Pan Summer Squash and Sausage Skillet

one-pan summer squash and sausage skillet - featured image
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A quick and easy one-pan recipe combining savory sausage and tender summer squash with a hint of smoky paprika, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium summer squash (zucchini or yellow squash), sliced into half-moons (about 3 cups)
  • 12 ounces smoked or spicy Italian sausage, sliced or crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Slice 2 medium summer squash into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. Dice 1 small yellow onion and mince 2 garlic cloves. Slice or crumble 12 ounces of sausage into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat a 10–12 inch skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Warm for 1-2 minutes until shimmering.
  3. Add the sausage to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Push the sausage to one side of the pan. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the empty side. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  5. Add the sliced summer squash and stir to coat in the sausage fat and oil. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until squash softens but retains some bite and develops a little golden color.
  6. Season with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top.
  8. Serve warm on its own or with sides like crusty bread or steamed rice.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking sausage to ensure proper browning. If squash releases excess water, tilt the pan and spoon off liquid to avoid sogginess. Add garlic with onions to prevent burning. For make-ahead, cook sausage and aromatics first, then add squash just before serving. Variations include using plant-based sausage for vegetarian or vegan versions, adding cherry tomatoes or corn for seasonal twists, or serving over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, summer squash, sausage, quick dinner, easy recipe, skillet, weeknight meal, Italian sausage, healthy, simple ingredients

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/easy-one-pan-summer-squash-and-sausage-skillet-recipe-for-quick-dinners/