Air Fryer Sausage Recipe with Veggies – Healthy One-Pan Dinner

There are those recipes that just show up when you need them the most—when it’s a chaotic Tuesday evening, your energy is fading, and dinner needs to happen now. You know that moment, right? The one where you’re staring into your fridge, trying to piece together a meal with what you’ve got on hand. That’s exactly how this air fryer chicken sausage and veggie recipe was born in my kitchen.

It started off as a clean-out-the-fridge type of situation: a couple of bell peppers, half a zucchini, a lonely red onion, and a package of chicken sausage that was supposed to be for pasta night. I chopped everything up, tossed it with some seasoning and oil, and threw it in the air fryer. Ten minutes later, I had a beautiful, colorful bowl of roasted, juicy veggies and crispy sausage bites—no babysitting, no flipping pans, and no oven preheating.

What I didn’t expect was how satisfying it would be. There’s something about the combination of lightly charred peppers, sweet onions, tender zucchini, and savory chicken sausage that just hits the spot. It’s hearty enough for dinner but light enough that you don’t feel weighed down. Plus, it’s completely adaptable—you can swap in whatever veggies you’ve got, use any kind of sausage you like, and top it off with your favorite sauce for a completely different flavor profile every time.

Since that night, this recipe has become a go-to in our house. It’s the kind of meal I can rely on when I want something fast, healthy, and totally delicious without making a mess or heating up the whole kitchen. And I think you’re going to love it just as much as we do.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sausage Recipe

There are so many reasons this recipe has a permanent spot in my weeknight rotation, and I think it’ll quickly earn that spot in yours, too. First of all, it’s incredibly easy. We’re talking minimal prep, barely any dishes, and no standing over the stove. Just chop, toss, and air fry. It’s the kind of recipe that practically cooks itself while you do other things—like pack tomorrow’s lunches or catch up on your favorite show.

The second reason is the flavor. When you roast veggies in the air fryer, they take on the most amazing texture. The bell peppers get slightly caramelized on the edges, the onions turn sweet and golden, and the zucchini becomes tender without going mushy. Pair that with crispy-edged, juicy slices of chicken sausage, and every bite is a perfect little mix of sweet, savory, and smoky.

It’s also really flexible. Don’t have red bell peppers? Use green. Not a fan of zucchini? Swap it out for mushrooms or broccoli. Want a spicier kick? Use a jalapeño chicken sausage or toss in some red pepper flakes. You can make this meal your own without any extra effort.

Another reason I love this dish is how family-friendly it is. It’s colorful, flavorful, and full of familiar ingredients that even picky eaters will enjoy. My kids love dipping the sausage pieces in a little sauce, and I love that they’re eating their veggies without a fight.

And finally, let’s talk about cleanup—there basically isn’t any. One bowl for tossing, one air fryer basket, and maybe a cutting board. That’s it. Which means less time doing dishes and more time relaxing after dinner. Win-win.

Health Benefits of this air fryer sausage recipe

This air fryer chicken sausage and veggie bowl isn’t just quick and tasty—it’s also packed with good-for-you ingredients that your body will thank you for. One of the best things about this recipe is how balanced it is. You’re getting lean protein, healthy fats, and a variety of colorful vegetables all in one dish, making it a great option whether you’re eating clean, watching your carbs, or just trying to get more veggies on your plate.

Let’s start with the chicken sausage. Choosing a high-quality, nitrate-free chicken sausage means you’re getting a lean source of protein without the added preservatives and sugars that can sneak into processed meats. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, keeping you full, and supporting your overall metabolism. Plus, chicken sausage is typically lower in fat than traditional pork sausage, making it a lighter alternative that still brings plenty of flavor.

Next up: the vegetables. Bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini each bring their own set of nutrients to the table. Bell peppers, especially red and orange ones, are rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and healthy skin. Red onions are a great source of antioxidants and have been linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. Zucchini is low in calories but high in fiber, which is excellent for digestion and satiety.

Cooking these veggies in the air fryer also helps preserve their nutrients. Unlike boiling or overcooking, which can cause some vitamins to leach out, air frying keeps the veggies slightly crisp and full of their natural goodness. Plus, since we’re only using a small amount of heart-healthy avocado oil, the fat content stays in check while still helping your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Lastly, seasoning with garlic and onion powder, Italian herbs, and just a pinch of salt and pepper means you’re getting tons of flavor without needing heavy sauces or added sugars. It’s a naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-carb meal that fits into a variety of diets—and it tastes amazing, too.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information of this air fryer sausage recipe

When it comes to busy weeknights or quick lunches, time is always of the essence. That’s one of the biggest perks of this air fryer chicken sausage and veggie recipe—it comes together so quickly that you’ll have a full meal on the table in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Total Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 generous portions
Calories per serving: 290
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Gluten-Free: Yes
Dairy-Free: Yes
Low-Carb: Yes

These numbers are estimates based on using nitrate-free chicken sausage and standard portions of vegetables. Depending on what brand or variety of sausage you use, the calorie and fat content may vary slightly. If you’re tracking macros or following a specific diet, it’s always a good idea to plug your exact ingredients into a food tracker for the most accurate results.

This meal is not only quick to prepare but also well-balanced in terms of nutrition. With under 300 calories per serving, it’s light yet filling, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a meal prep option for the week ahead.

Ingredients List of this air fryer sausage recipe

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients—just a few fresh vegetables, your favorite chicken sausage, and some pantry seasonings. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this meal:

• 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 (12 oz) package chicken sausage, sliced into ¾-inch rounds (Italian-style, nitrate/sugar-free recommended)

Let’s take a quick look at why these ingredients work so well together:

• Red and orange bell peppers bring sweetness, color, and vitamin C. They caramelize beautifully in the air fryer.
• Red onion adds a slight bite and natural sweetness when roasted. It balances the sausage perfectly.
• Zucchini offers moisture and a soft texture that complements the crispy sausage. It’s a great way to bulk up the meal with minimal calories.
• Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for air frying. It also adds a subtle richness.
• Garlic and onion powder are the building blocks of savory flavor. They give that deep, well-rounded taste without any chopping.
• Italian seasoning brings herby, aromatic notes that tie everything together.
• Kosher salt and black pepper are essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Chicken sausage adds protein and a satisfying, meaty texture. Using a nitrate-free, Italian-style variety keeps the dish flavorful and wholesome.

You can easily customize this list depending on what you have in your kitchen. Feel free to substitute other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or asparagus, or use different herbs for a fresh twist.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is as straightforward as it gets. Even if you’re brand new to cooking or have never used an air fryer before, you’ll be able to follow these steps with total confidence. Just take it one stage at a time, and before you know it, dinner will be ready and your kitchen will still be clean. Here’s how to bring this delicious dish together.

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean towel to remove any extra moisture. This helps them roast rather than steam in the air fryer, giving you those delicious crispy edges.

• Cut the red and orange bell peppers into 1-inch pieces. Try to keep them roughly uniform in size so they cook evenly.
• Peel the red onion and chop it into 1-inch chunks. Separate the layers slightly so they roast evenly.
• Slice the zucchini into thick rounds, about ½-inch thick, then cut those into halves or quarters if your zucchini is large. Again, the goal is uniformity in size for even cooking.

Place all the chopped veggies into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Toss with Oil

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of avocado oil (or olive oil if you prefer) over the veggies. Using your hands or a pair of tongs, toss everything together until the vegetables are lightly and evenly coated.

Why avocado oil? It has a high smoke point, which makes it perfect for air frying. It also has a neutral taste that won’t overpower the seasonings or sausage.

Step 3: Season the Vegetables

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper. This seasoning blend is simple but packs a ton of flavor. The Italian seasoning gives it that classic herby finish, while garlic and onion powder give the veggies a deep savory punch.

Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the oiled vegetables. Toss again until everything is evenly coated with spices. This helps ensure each bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken Sausage

Now it’s time for the star of the show: the chicken sausage. Choose a nitrate-free Italian-style chicken sausage if you can find it. These are usually lightly spiced with garlic and herbs, making them perfect for this recipe.

• Slice the sausage into ¾-inch rounds. This size allows them to get crispy on the outside but still juicy in the middle.
• Add the sliced sausage to the bowl with the seasoned veggies.
• Gently toss everything together so the sausage is coated in the leftover seasoning and oil.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer (If Needed)

Some air fryers require preheating, while others don’t. Check your model’s manual just to be sure. If it does, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Preheating helps give the veggies a nice sear and ensures the sausage crisps up quickly.

Step 6: Load the Air Fryer Basket

Spray your air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then add the sausage and veggie mix in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the basket—this allows hot air to circulate around the food and ensures even cooking.

Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook in two batches. That’s totally okay. Just keep the second batch warm in a low oven (about 200°F) while the rest finishes cooking.

Step 7: Air Fry

Set the timer for 10 minutes and cook at 390°F. At the halfway point—around the 5-minute mark—open the basket and give everything a good toss or shake. This ensures the sausage and veggies cook evenly and develop a nice crispy edge.

After 10 minutes, check for doneness. The veggies should be tender and slightly browned on the edges. The sausage should be golden and crispy on the outside.

If your sausage or veggies need a little more time (especially if you’ve used a different vegetable mix or cut your pieces larger), cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Once everything is beautifully roasted and golden, transfer the sausage and veggies to a serving dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a little more zing, try squeezing some fresh lemon juice over the top or adding a few chopped herbs like parsley or basil.

You’re officially done—and your kitchen still looks spotless.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can keep it simple or dress it up, depending on your mood or what you’ve got on hand. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this recipe:

Serve it as-is, straight from the air fryer, for a low-carb, high-protein meal that doesn’t need anything else. It’s satisfying and filling all on its own.

If you want something a little heartier, spoon the sausage and veggie mix over a bowl of brown rice or cauliflower rice. The juices from the sausage soak into the rice and make every bite delicious.

Try serving it over quinoa for a plant-based protein boost. Quinoa adds a nice nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the Italian seasoning and roasted vegetables.

Add a drizzle of your favorite sauce—pesto, sriracha mayo, tahini dressing, or even a light yogurt-based ranch work really well. This gives the dish a new flavor twist and makes it feel totally fresh.

Turn it into a warm salad by tossing the sausage and veggies with arugula or spinach. The residual heat wilts the greens slightly, and a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar pulls everything together.

Use leftovers in a wrap or pita pocket with a smear of hummus or garlic sauce for an easy lunch the next day.

Top it with a fried or soft-boiled egg for a power-packed brunch bowl.

With so many options, you’ll never get bored eating this dish. Just switch up the base or sauce, and it feels like an entirely new meal.

Pairing Suggestions

Wondering what to serve alongside this dish to round out your meal? Since this recipe is so flexible and well-balanced, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. Whether you’re aiming for light and fresh or warm and cozy, here are some great options to consider:

Pair it with a fresh green salad. A simple side salad made with arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing counterpoint to the savory sausage and roasted veggies.

Serve it with a soup starter. A light vegetable or tomato-based soup complements the hearty texture of the main dish and adds an extra dose of veggies to your meal.

Add warm, crusty bread or whole grain rolls. This is especially good if you’ve made a saucier version of the dish with pesto or tomato sauce. You’ll want something to soak up those juices.

For something creamy and cool, try a side of tzatziki or hummus. These Mediterranean dips are perfect for scooping up bits of sausage and roasted veggies and work well as a complement to the spices.

If you’re serving this for brunch or lunch, try pairing it with a fruit salad or citrus wedges. The brightness of the fruit cuts through the richness of the sausage and brings balance to the plate.

Need a beverage pairing? Try a sparkling water with lime or a homemade lemonade for something refreshing and light. For an evening dinner, a chilled mocktail made with pomegranate juice and soda water is a great alcohol-free option.

However you pair it, this dish is easy to complement. Just keep the sides simple and let the vibrant flavors of the sausage and veggies shine.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this air fryer chicken sausage and veggie dish is how well it holds up as leftovers. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just happen to have extras, you’ll be glad to know that this recipe is just as delicious the next day—and super easy to reheat without losing flavor or texture.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, allow the cooked sausage and vegetables to cool completely at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Then, transfer them into an airtight container. You can store the mixture in one large container or divide it into smaller portions for easy grab-and-go meals.

Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The sausage will retain its flavor and the veggies will stay tender without turning mushy.

If you like keeping your sauces separate, store any pesto, tahini, or dressing you plan to use in a small container on the side to keep everything tasting fresh.

How to Freeze

If you’d like to make this dish in bulk or save leftovers for future meals, freezing is a great option.

Place the cooled sausage and veggie mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1–2 hours. Once the pieces are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This method prevents clumping and makes it easier to reheat just the portion you need later.

Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the container with the date so you know when to use it by.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat refrigerated leftovers, use the air fryer again for best results. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, then cook the sausage and veggies for 5–7 minutes, tossing once halfway through. This will help restore that lovely crisp texture without drying anything out.

You can also reheat in the microwave if you’re short on time. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1½ to 2 minutes, or until warmed through. The damp towel helps prevent the veggies from drying out.

For frozen portions, you can go straight from freezer to air fryer. Set your air fryer to 350°F and cook for 10–12 minutes, tossing occasionally. Alternatively, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat as above.

No matter which method you use, you’ll be amazed at how fresh and flavorful the leftovers taste. It’s like hitting the reset button on dinner all over again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is super simple, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch for so you can nail it every time.

Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

It can be tempting to load everything into the air fryer in one go, especially when you’re in a rush. But cramming too many pieces in at once will lead to uneven cooking and soggy veggies. Instead, cook in batches if needed and aim for a single layer with a little space between pieces.

Not Cutting Vegetables Evenly

Chopping the vegetables into uneven sizes will result in some pieces being undercooked while others burn. Try to keep everything close to the same size—about 1-inch chunks is ideal. This ensures they cook at the same rate and develop that perfect golden edge.

Skipping the Toss Halfway Through

One of the secrets to even browning in an air fryer is shaking or tossing the basket halfway through cooking. If you forget this step, you may end up with some pieces that are too crispy and others that are barely cooked. Set a timer or reminder to flip the mix around at the 5-minute mark.

Using Too Much Oil

While a little oil is necessary for flavor and browning, too much can make the veggies greasy and cause the air fryer to smoke. Stick to about 1 tablespoon for the whole batch. It’s enough to help with caramelization without going overboard.

Not Preheating the Air Fryer

If your air fryer requires preheating and you skip it, your cooking time might be off and your sausage may not crisp up properly. Always check your air fryer’s instructions and preheat when needed—it makes a noticeable difference in the final texture.

Avoiding these simple mistakes will guarantee you get delicious, evenly cooked results every time you make this dish.

Pro Tips

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take this recipe from great to truly next-level. These pro tips will help you elevate the flavor, improve the texture, and save even more time in the kitchen.

Use Fresh Herbs for a Finishing Touch

While the Italian seasoning in the recipe adds great flavor during cooking, fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or even thyme can brighten up the finished dish. Just sprinkle them on after cooking for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Add a Pop of Acid

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar added right before serving can really wake up the flavors. Acid helps balance the savory richness of the sausage and adds dimension to the roasted vegetables.

Switch Up the Protein

This recipe is fantastic with chicken sausage, but it’s also very forgiving. Try turkey sausage, beef sausage, or even sliced grilled chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based sausage or tofu and follow the same steps.

Roast Garlic with the Veggies

If you love garlic, try tossing in a few whole cloves with the vegetables before air frying. Roasted garlic turns sweet and soft and can be mashed into a sauce or spread on warm bread alongside the meal.

Make It a Meal Prep Staple

Double the batch and store in meal prep containers with a side of rice, quinoa, or salad greens. Drizzle with a different sauce each day to keep things interesting. This recipe keeps really well and makes healthy eating during the week almost effortless.

With just a few tweaks or additions, you can turn this dish into something that feels new every time while keeping the convenience and comfort of the original.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry as much as possible to remove excess moisture. Frozen vegetables tend to release more water during cooking, which can make the dish soggy if not dried properly.

What kind of chicken sausage should I use?

Look for a nitrate-free, sugar-free Italian-style chicken sausage if you want something with herby, savory flavor. You can also try spicier varieties or flavored ones like apple-chicken sausage for a sweeter twist. Any fully cooked chicken sausage will work.

Do I have to preheat my air fryer?

It depends on your model. Some air fryers require preheating for optimal crisping. If yours does, definitely take the extra 3–5 minutes—it helps achieve that nice sear on the sausage and even browning on the veggies.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. This recipe is perfect for customization. Try adding mushrooms, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, green beans, or even Brussels sprouts. Just keep an eye on cooking times—more delicate veggies may cook faster.

How do I keep the veggies from getting soggy?

Don’t overcrowd the basket, and make sure your vegetables are dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispness in the air fryer. Tossing halfway through also helps prevent steaming.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. The sausage is familiar and flavorful, and the veggies get sweet and tender when roasted. If you have picky eaters, you can serve the sausage separately with a favorite dipping sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything—chop the veggies, slice the sausage, and mix the seasonings—a day ahead. Store everything in the fridge and toss it into the air fryer when you’re ready to cook.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or use a spicy variety of chicken sausage. You can also drizzle sriracha or hot sauce over the finished dish.

Is this dish low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and works well for low-carb and keto-style diets, especially if you serve it over cauliflower rice or leafy greens.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast everything in the oven at 425°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. It’s not quite as fast, but still delicious.

Conclusion & Call to Action

And there you have it—your new favorite weeknight dinner that checks every box: quick, healthy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. This air fryer chicken sausage and veggie bowl is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. It’s ideal for those nights when you need dinner fast but still want something nourishing and satisfying.

What I love most about this dish is how effortlessly it fits into real life. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just trying to get something wholesome on the table without resorting to takeout, this recipe has your back. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze, and the ingredients are all things you can easily keep stocked in your fridge and pantry.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Did you stick with the original version, or did you put your own spin on it with different veggies or sauces? Either way, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I’m always excited to see your creations and hear how you’ve made them your own.

So go ahead, pull out that air fryer, and give this easy, delicious recipe a try. You’ll be surprised at how something so simple can taste so good.

Happy cooking

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