Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner

This sheet pan chicken sausage dinner transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular weeknight meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of savory sausage with colorful vegetables creates a satisfying meal that roasts to perfection while you attend to other things.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something nutritious but had zero energy for complicated cooking. Now it appears on our table at least twice a month my kids actually cheer when they see the sheet pan come out.

Ingredients

• Fully cooked chicken sausage links: These provide lean protein without requiring precooking unlike raw sausage
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweet flavor and vibrant color look for firm peppers with glossy skin
• Red onion: Caramelizes beautifully in the oven choose ones that feel heavy for their size
• Broccoli: Creates crispy edges when roasted select heads with tight florets and no yellowing
• Sweet potato: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and heartiness choose medium sized for even cooking
• Olive oil: Helps vegetables caramelize properly use extra virgin for best flavor
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors throughout the dish
• Black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity
• Garlic powder: Provides aromatic flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Dried oregano: Infuses Mediterranean notes throughout go for bright green dried herbs
• Fresh parsley: Optional brightens the final dish with color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the ingredients:

Slice chicken sausage into medallions on a diagonal about half inch thick which creates more surface area for browning. Chop bell pepper into generous one inch chunks so they maintain texture while roasting. Slice onion into half inch slices keeping some of the root intact so pieces hold together. Cut broccoli into small florets of similar size ensuring even cooking. Dice sweet potato into three quarter inch cubes after washing and peeling any blemishes off the skin.

Season everything:

Place all prepared sausage and vegetables into a large mixing bowl giving yourself plenty of room to toss. Drizzle with olive oil first then sprinkle with salt black pepper garlic powder and dried oregano. Use your hands to toss everything together ensuring each piece is coated with both oil and seasonings this step is crucial for even flavor distribution.

Arrange for roasting:

Transfer the seasoned mixture onto a parchment lined baking sheet spreading everything into a single even layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan which would cause steaming instead of roasting leave a little space between items for hot air circulation and proper browning.

First roasting phase:

Place sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for exactly 15 minutes which allows the vegetables to begin softening and the sausage to start developing color. The kitchen will begin filling with amazing aromas around the 10 minute mark.

Stir and finish roasting:

Remove the pan and stir everything thoroughly to promote even browning bringing items from the edges toward the center and vice versa. Return to the oven for another 15 minutes or until you see golden brown edges on the vegetables and nicely caramelized sausage pieces.

pin it

The sweet potato is truly the secret hero in this recipe. While I was initially skeptical about how it would pair with the chicken sausage the caramelization that happens in the oven transforms it into something magical. My daughter who normally pushes orange vegetables to the side of her plate always asks for seconds of these sweet potato cubes.

How To Customize Your Sheet Pan Dinner

This recipe welcomes substitutions based on what you have available. Try butternut squash instead of sweet potato for an even sweeter flavor profile. Brussels sprouts can replace broccoli for a different texture experience. Any color bell pepper works well though red offers the sweetest flavor. For the protein Italian turkey sausage or even sliced smoked sausage can stand in for the chicken sausage.

Make Ahead And Storage Tips

You can prep all vegetables and sausage up to two days ahead and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to cook simply toss with oil and seasonings and proceed with roasting. Leftovers keep beautifully for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat portions in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes for the best texture preservation. This dish also freezes surprisingly well store in portion sizes for easy grab and go lunches.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish stands perfectly on its own try serving it over cooked quinoa or brown rice to stretch it further. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the roasted flavors beautifully. For an extra special touch sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over individual servings right before eating. My family enjoys this with a dollop of whole grain mustard on the side for dipping the sausage pieces.

pin it

A delightful, easy dinner that'll quickly become a family favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different vegetables in this sheet pan dinner?

Absolutely! This dish is extremely versatile. Good substitutions include brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash. Just ensure harder vegetables are cut small enough to cook in the same timeframe.

→ What type of chicken sausage works best?

Any fully-cooked chicken sausage variety works well. Try Italian, garlic herb, apple, or sun-dried tomato flavored options to complement the vegetables. Turkey sausage is also a good alternative.

→ Can I prep this meal ahead of time?

Yes! Chop all vegetables and slice the sausage up to 2 days ahead. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator, then toss with oil and seasonings just before roasting.

→ How do I know when everything is properly cooked?

The vegetables should be fork-tender and have browned, caramelized edges. The sausage should be heated through with slight browning. If some vegetables cook faster than others, remove them and return the sheet pan to the oven until everything is properly cooked.

→ What can I serve with this sheet pan dinner?

This is a complete meal on its own, but you could serve it with crusty bread, over rice, quinoa, or with a simple side salad. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle of parmesan cheese makes a delicious finishing touch.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika to the seasoning mix. You could also use spicy chicken sausage varieties or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.