If you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that is packed with flavor and nutrition, you might want to try this sausage and broccoli skillet recipe. It only requires four ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, and it will satisfy your taste buds and your hunger.
This recipe is inspired by the one from The Kitchn, which features Cajun andouille sausage and broccoli florets cooked in a zesty garlic, herbs and butter sauce. Andouille sausage is a smoked pork sausage that is highly seasoned with garlic, pepper, and spices, and is often spicy. It adds a lot of flavor and heat to the dish, but you can also use any other kind of sausage you like, such as Italian, bratwurst, or chicken.
The other ingredients you need are:
- Broccoli: Cut florets from 2 to 3 broccoli crowns, and save the stems for another use. Broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and it pairs well with the sausage.
- Garlic: You’ll need 3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish, and it also has some health benefits, such as boosting your immune system and lowering your blood pressure.
- Cajun or Creole seasoning: This bold blend of spices is a mix of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and more. It gives the dish a nice kick and a vibrant color. You can make your own homemade Cajun seasoning blend, or use a store-bought one, such as Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning. If your seasoning blend is salt-free, taste the broccoli before serving and add salt as needed.
How to Make This Recipe
This recipe is very simple and easy to follow. Here are the steps:
- Prep the ingredients. Cut the broccoli into bite-size florets, mince the garlic, and slice the andouille sausage into rounds.
- Brown the sausage. Heat some oil in a large skillet and cook the sausage until browned on both sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the broccoli. Add some more oil, broccoli, and Cajun or Creole seasoning to the same skillet; toss; and then cook until the broccoli is browned in spots. Add the garlic and some water; cover and steam until the broccoli is crisp-tender.
- Combine sausage and broccoli. Return the sausage to the skillet and toss to combine with the broccoli. Spoon the sauce over the sausage and broccoli. Adjust seasoning with pepper and serve.
What to Serve with This Recipe
This sausage and broccoli skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with some side dishes to make it more filling and satisfying. Some good options are:
- Rice: Rice is a classic accompaniment to any skillet dish, and it will soak up the delicious sauce from the sausage and broccoli. You can use white, brown, or wild rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Bread: Bread is another great way to enjoy the sauce, and it will add some crunch and texture to the dish. You can use any kind of bread you like, such as French, sourdough, or cornbread. You can also toast the bread and rub some garlic on it for extra flavor.
- Salad: Salad is a refreshing and light side dish that will balance out the richness and spiciness of the sausage and broccoli. You can make a simple green salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing, or a more hearty salad with beans, cheese, nuts, or fruits.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This sausage and broccoli skillet recipe is a great choice for a busy weeknight, or any time you want a delicious and easy meal. Here are some reasons why you should try it:
- It is quick and easy. You only need four ingredients and 30 minutes to make this dish, and you only use one pan, which means less cleanup.
- It is flavorful and satisfying. The sausage and broccoli are cooked in a zesty garlic, herbs and butter sauce, which makes them tender and tasty. The dish has a nice balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, and it will fill you up and keep you energized.
- It is versatile and adaptable. You can use any kind of sausage you like, or even substitute it with chicken, beef, or tofu. You can also use any other vegetable you have on hand, such as cauliflower, zucchini, or carrots. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, and make it more or less spicy.