Okay, friends, let’s talk dinner. Specifically, let’s talk about those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, wondering what magic spell will conjure up something delicious and, more importantly, *easy*. This Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies recipe? It’s that spell. Think of it like the roasted chicken and potatoes of the weeknight world – hearty, satisfying, but requiring approximately 1/10th of the effort. I remember my mom making something similar when I was a kid, though hers involved a can of cream of mushroom soup (we’ve thankfully evolved!). This is SO much better, and honestly, it’s become a total staple. We make this at least once a week, and sometimes even twice! It really is the ultimate busy-day meal, and it’s a fantastic way to get a bunch of veggies into the kids (and yourself!).
What is sheet pan sausage and veg?
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies is exactly what it sounds like: a delicious and colorful medley of your favorite sausages and vegetables roasted together on a single sheet pan. Think of it as a deconstructed sausage and pepper sandwich, but with way more flexibility. It’s essentially the easiest way to get a complete meal on the table without dirtying a ton of dishes. You chop, you toss, you roast, you eat! The beauty lies in its simplicity and customization. Use whatever sausage you love – Italian, kielbasa, chorizo, even plant-based options work beautifully. And the veggies? The possibilities are endless! This makes it great to customize around your family’s tastes, or whatever produce is currently in your refrigerator.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? I could go on about this recipe for hours. First, the flavor is incredible. The sausages release their savory juices, which mingle with the herbs and spices, coating the veggies in pure deliciousness. It’s a beautiful symphony of savory and slightly sweet, especially if you add some bell peppers or onions. Secondly, it’s ridiculously easy. Seriously, even on my most exhausted evenings, I can manage to throw this together. Chop, toss, bake…done! Third, it’s cost-effective. Sausage and seasonal veggies are generally budget-friendly, making this a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank. What I love most about this is how versatile it is. You can serve it as is, over rice or quinoa, in tortillas as tacos, or even as a topping for pizza. It’s truly a meal that keeps on giving. I find that this recipe is similar to other sheet pan recipes, such as sheet Pan Chicken fajitas, but I feel like this is even simpler, and offers more opportunities to get the family involved.
How do you make a sheet pan sausage and veg?
Quick Overview
Making Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies is as simple as 1-2-3! First, you’ll preheat your oven and prep your sheet pan. Next, you chop your sausage and veggies, then toss them with olive oil, herbs, and spices. Finally, you spread everything out on the sheet pan and roast until tender and slightly caramelized. The magic is really in the roasting – that’s where all the flavors meld together and create something truly special. This is great because it’s much faster than grilling sausages, which would require constant attention! We also find that this helps the flavor of the sausage really blend into the veggies.
Ingredients
For the Sausage and Veggies:
* 1 pound sausage (Italian, kielbasa, chorizo, or your favorite), sliced into 1-inch pieces. I usually go for Italian sausage – the sweet kind is my favorite!
* 1 large red onion, cut into wedges. Red onion adds such a nice sweetness when roasted.
* 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces. I like a mix of red and yellow for color.
* 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large. Yukon Golds are my go-to!
* 2 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces. Look for firm, vibrant zucchini.
* 2 cups broccoli florets. Fresh broccoli is best for roasting.
* 2 tablespoons olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is my preference.
* 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning. This adds a classic flavor.
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder. A must-have for savory dishes!
* 1/2 teaspoon salt. Adjust to your taste.
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper. Freshly ground is always best.
* Optional: red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat. I usually add a pinch for myself!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. I always do this, even when I’m feeling lazy! How do you save time scrubbing? Make sure the parchment paper is big enough to cover the entire pan, with a little overhang on the pan.
Step 2: Chop the Sausage and Veggies
While the oven is preheating, chop your sausage and veggies into roughly 1-inch pieces. What is the key here is to make sure everything is relatively uniform in size so that it cooks evenly. I usually start with the sausage, then move onto the veggies. If you have small baby potatoes, just halving them is fine. If they’re larger, quarter them. What are some good ways to cook zucchini – just make sure the pieces aren’t too small or they’ll get mushy.
Step 3: Toss with Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the chopped sausage and veggies with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic and salt. Serve immediately. Powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well coated so that the flavors really meld together during roasting. I like to use my hands for this – it’s the easiest way to make sure everything is evenly coated. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them now too. Can you customize the flavor of your favorite food?
Step 4: Spread on Sheet Pan
Spread the sausage and veggie mixture in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. If you overcrowd the pan, try not to overcook the veggies, as this will cause them to steam instead of roasting. If necessary, use two sheet pans. I’ve made that mistake before and ended up with soggy veggies! I always try to leave a little space between each piece, so the heat can circulate properly.
Step 5: Roast
In the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and slightly browned. When sausage is cooked through, it caramelizes. I like to flip everything halfway through, around the 15-minute mark, to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it towards the end – you want the veggies to be nicely browned, but not burnt.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. I usually like to sprinkle a little fresh parsley or basil on top for extra flavor and visual appeal. What are some good side dishes to serve with rice, quinoa, or a salad? Can you serve it in tortillas as tacos, or as a topping for pizza? Is there an endless amount of possibilities?
What should I serve it with?
This Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to take. Is it to the next level?
What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?Serve it with a side salad and Crusty Bread for dipping in the flavorful juices.
What is a hearty meal?Serve over rice, quinoa, or Mashed Potatoes. What are some of the best toppings for sausage and veggies?
For a Fun and Casual Meal:Serve it in tortillas as tacos or quesadillas. Top with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole and sour cream.
What is a good pizza night? Use the roasted sausage and veggies as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza. It adds so much flavor and texture!
Growing up, we often had this with a simple green salad with vinaigrette. My grandma always insisted on having a loaf of Italian bread to soak up all the delicious pans. I still carry on that tradition to this day – it’s one of my favorite parts of the meal.
What are some tips for perfecting a sheet pan sausage and veg?
What are the best ways to make Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies?
What are the best sausages? The flavor of the sausage will really shine through, so it’s worth investing in good quality. I prefer Italian sausage, but feel free to use your favorite.
Don’t overcrowd the pan.If you want to roast veggies, use two sheet pans.
Cut veggies into uniform sizes.How do I cook everything evenly?
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different veggies.What veggies do you have on hand? What are some other great vegetables to eat include Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower?
Add a touch of acid at the end.What are some good ways to brighten up a lemon with balsamic vinegar? I learned this from cooking shows years ago, and it really does make a difference!
How do you use parchment paper for easy cleaning?Trust me, you’ll thank me later. I’ve tried using foil before, but parchment paper really does a better job of preventing stains.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings.This recipe is a great blank canvas for experimentation with different herbs and spices. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, or a pinch of cinnamon. What is the best way to add brown sugar to a recipe?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
How do I store and reheat my Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables?
Room Temperature: Cooked Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my go-to method for storing leftovers. I usually pack them in individual containers for easy lunches.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies for up to 2-3 months. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. To prevent freezer burn, I like to wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, simply place the leftovers on a sheet pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy. I usually add a splash of water or broth to the pan when reheating in the oven to prevent them from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies recipe is truly a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a simple and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. I love knowing that I can throw this together with minimal effort and still have a healthy and flavorful dinner on the table. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other sheet pan recipes for more easy and delicious meal ideas. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below what your favorite sausage and veggie combinations are, and don’t forget to rate this recipe if you give it a try!
