Easy Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies (Autumn Style)

This sheet pan sausage and veggie dinner is your answer to a minimal-effort, maximum-flavor meal. With just a bit of slicing and a single pan, you can create a satisfying dish that capitalizes on the natural flavors of roasted vegetables and savory sausages.

  • Cuisine: American
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimize clean-up and maximize ease by using just a sheet pan.
  • Customizable: Easy to switch out vegetables or sausage types based on personal preference and availability.
  • Effortless Preparation: Simply slice, toss, and roast for a hands-off cooking experience.

Ingredients

  • 1 large red onion, halved and sliced ¼-inch thick: Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with white or yellow onion.
  • 3 large carrots, sliced on an angle ½-inch thick: Provides color and natural sweetness while roasting; substitute with parsnips for a different nuance.
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, stemmed and halved: Roasting brings out a nutty flavor; substitutable with broccoli florets.
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps with roasting and adds richness; substitute with avocado oil if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor across all components.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy herbal note; substitute with dried oregano for a slight variation.
  • 1 pound fresh hot (or sweet) Italian sausage links: Provides a protein that’s flavorful on its own; bratwurst or chorizo can be an exciting alternative.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare for Roasting

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This temperature is ideal for caramelizing the vegetables and thoroughly cooking the sausage. Position the oven rack in the middle for even heat distribution. Lining your baking sheet with heavy-duty foil is optional but helps minimize clean-up.

Step 2: Mix and Arrange

On the baking sheet, combine the sliced onion, carrots, and halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss everything to coat the vegetables evenly. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure they roast rather than steam. Position the sausages evenly among the vegetables for balanced cooking.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Roast for 25 minutes. The high heat will caramelize the vegetables, bringing out sweetness and intensifying their flavors, while the sausages will become juicy and brown. Check for tender vegetables and thoroughly cooked sausage without needing to stir, allowing the natural flavors to meld seamlessly.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but keep in mind they may release more water and take a bit longer to roast compared to fresh vegetables. Thaw and pat them dry for better caramelization.

What’s a good alternative to Italian sausage?

If you prefer a different flavor profile, bratwurst or chorizo are excellent alternatives that bring their own distinct spices to the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture, or microwave for convenience, albeit with a softer texture.

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