Quick Description
This High-Protein Sausage and Veggie Skillet is a savory and satisfying dish made with ground pork sausage, bell peppers, mushrooms, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Topped with pepperoni and broiled to perfection, it’s a quick and protein-packed meal.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground pork sausage
- 1 large bell pepper, cut into thin 1–2-inch strips (half red and half yellow for color)
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ oz pepperoni slices
Instructions
-
Cook the Sausage:
- Heat an oven-safe 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground pork sausage and cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking apart the sausage with a spatula until browned and cooked through.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the sausage is cooking, preheat the oven to the Broil setting.
- Once the sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to medium.
- Push the sausage to the edges of the pan to create space in the center. Add the sliced mushrooms and bell pepper strips to the center of the skillet.
- Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Move less cooked pieces towards the bottom of the pan. Continue cooking until the vegetables are soft and any excess moisture from the mushrooms has evaporated. (If the pan gets too dry, add a little oil.)
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Turn off the heat. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the mixture and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and arrange the pepperoni slices on the cheese.
-
Broil the Skillet:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven under the broiler and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and the pepperoni starts to crisp up.
-
Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve immediately.
Additional Notes
- Flavor Additions: For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage and vegetable mixture.
- Vegetable Substitutes: You can swap out the bell peppers and mushrooms for other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or even cauliflower for different flavor profiles.
- Add Some Crunch: For extra crunch, sprinkle with parmesan cheese or top with a few fresh basil leaves after broiling.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein
- Low-Carb
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Friendly
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Ground Pork Sausage: You can use turkey sausage or ground chicken for a leaner version.
- Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or provolone work well in this dish as substitutes for mozzarella.
- Pepperoni: Use turkey or chicken pepperoni if you’re looking for a leaner option, or replace it with another topping such as cooked bacon or sausage.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Low-Carb Version: Serve this dish with a side of roasted cauliflower rice or over zucchini noodles for a complete, low-carb meal.
- Add More Vegetables: Add more veggies like spinach, kale, or artichokes for a heartier, more nutrient-packed dish.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair this skillet with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a balanced meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Net Carbs: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different meat instead of pork sausage?
Yes! You can substitute the pork sausage with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or beef for a different flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Optional Personal Story
This dish was born from my craving for a high-protein, low-carb meal that was both satisfying and full of flavor. The crispy, melty cheese and savory sausage make it a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
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Try this High-Protein Sausage and Veggie Skillet for your next meal — it’s quick, satisfying, and packed with protein. The cheesy, crispy top and flavorful sausage are guaranteed to make this a family favorite!
