Sausage Griddlers Quick Dinner: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine succulent cubes of tofu, infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the herbaceous freshness of coriander, all grilled to perfection on a skewer. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

While tofu skewers might seem like a modern creation, the art of skewering and grilling food dates back centuries across various cultures. From the Middle Eastern kebabs to the Japanese yakitori, skewered delights have always been a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a variety of ingredients. Our Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers draw inspiration from these traditions, offering a plant-based twist that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying.

What makes these skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tofu, often praised for its versatility, soaks up the vibrant marinade, becoming tender and flavorful. The lemon provides a refreshing tang, while the coriander adds an earthy, aromatic note. Grilling the skewers gives them a slightly smoky char, enhancing the overall taste experience. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy tofu!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6-8 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
• 6-8 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella, if you prefer)
• Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, banana peppers, giardiniera

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetable Base

Okay, let’s get started! The heart of these Sausage Griddlers is the flavorful sausage and vegetable mixture. This is where we build all that deliciousness.

1. Brown the Sausage: First, remove the sausage from its casings (if applicable). In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure there are no pink bits left! This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl. Don’t drain the grease just yet – we’ll use that to cook the veggies!
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet (with the sausage drippings – yum!). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender, but not mushy.
3. Add the Garlic: Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute more, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells fragrant and delicious.
4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer in Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (undrained – we want all that juicy goodness!). Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well.
6. Simmer for Flavor: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or even longer if you have the time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering step is crucial for developing that rich, savory flavor we’re looking for.

Assembling the Sausage Griddlers

Now for the fun part – putting it all together! This is where we transform that delicious sausage mixture into a satisfying and cheesy griddler.

1. Prepare the Rolls: While the sausage mixture is simmering, prepare the hoagie rolls. You can lightly toast them if you like a little extra crunch, but it’s not necessary. If you do toast them, keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
2. Fill the Rolls: Once the sausage mixture is ready, use a slotted spoon to scoop it into the hoagie rolls. Be generous! You want each roll to be packed with that flavorful sausage and vegetable goodness. Don’t overfill them to the point where they’re impossible to eat, but definitely don’t be shy.
3. Add the Cheese: Top each sausage-filled roll with a slice or two of provolone cheese (or mozzarella). Make sure the cheese covers as much of the sausage mixture as possible.

Griddling the Sausage Griddlers

This is where the magic happens! Griddling the sandwiches gives them that warm, melty, and slightly crispy texture that makes them so irresistible.

1. Prepare the Griddle or Pan: Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium heat. You can lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray, but it’s usually not necessary, especially if your skillet is non-stick.
2. Griddle the Sandwiches: Place the assembled sausage griddlers on the hot griddle or skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rolls are golden brown and slightly crispy. You can gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help them cook evenly and get that nice, flat griddled shape. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
3. Check for Doneness: The sausage griddlers are ready when the cheese is fully melted and gooey, the rolls are nicely toasted, and the sausage mixture is heated through.

Serving and Enjoying Your Sausage Griddlers

Alright, you’ve made it! Your Sausage Griddlers are ready to be devoured. Here are a few tips for serving and enjoying them:

1. Serve Immediately: Sausage Griddlers are best served hot and fresh, right off the griddle. The cheese is at its melty best, and the rolls are still nice and crispy.
2. Optional Toppings: If you want to add a little extra flair, you can top your Sausage Griddlers with grated Parmesan cheese, banana peppers, or giardiniera. These toppings add a nice burst of flavor and texture.
3. Cut in Half (Optional): If the Sausage Griddlers are large, you can cut them in half for easier eating. This also makes them great for sharing!
4. Pair with Sides: Sausage Griddlers are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Some good options include:
   • Potato chips
   • Coleslaw
   • A simple salad
   • French fries
   • Onion rings
5. Enjoy! Most importantly, relax and enjoy your delicious Sausage Griddlers! They’re perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a game-day snack.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your Sausage Griddlers? Here are a few ideas:

• Different Sausage: Experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo, andouille, or even chicken sausage.
• Different Cheese: Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses.
• Add Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the sausage mixture, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Creamy Sauce: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or sour cream to the sausage mixture for a creamier texture.
• Garlic Bread Rolls: Use garlic bread rolls instead of plain hoagie rolls for extra flavor.
• Bake Instead of Griddle: If you don’t have a griddle, you can bake the assembled Sausage Griddlers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Make-Ahead Tips:

Want to get a head start on your Sausage Griddlers? Here are a few tips:

• Prepare the Sausage Mixture in Advance: You can prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the Sausage Griddlers, simply reheat the mixture and proceed with the recipe.
• Assemble the Sandwiches in Advance: You can assemble the Sausage Griddlers (without griddling them) up to a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook them, simply griddle them as directed in the recipe.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftover Sausage Griddlers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, you can microwave them, bake them in the oven, or griddle them again. Keep in mind that the rolls may not be as crispy after being refrigerated.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Sausage Griddlers Quick Dinner is more than just a meal; it’s a weeknight savior, a flavor explosion, and a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a fast, satisfying, and family-friendly dinner option. The combination of savory sausage, perfectly griddled bread, and your favorite toppings creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.

But why is this recipe so special? It’s the simplicity, really. We’re talking minimal ingredients, straightforward steps, and a cooking time that won’t keep you chained to the stove for hours. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up after a long day at work, when the kids are clamoring for food, or when you simply don’t feel like spending a lot of time in the kitchen. And yet, despite its simplicity, it delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. The crispy, golden-brown bread, the juicy sausage, and the melted cheese – it’s a winning combination every time.

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations, because the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking! For a classic experience, serve your Sausage Griddlers with a side of crispy potato chips or a fresh garden salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some caramelized onions or sautéed peppers to the griddler for an extra layer of flavor. A dollop of your favorite mustard or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the dish to new heights.

Looking for variations? Consider swapping out the sausage for other proteins like ground beef, shredded chicken, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or provolone for a milder flavor. And don’t forget about the toppings! Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can add a unique twist to your Sausage Griddlers.

For a truly decadent experience, try dipping your Sausage Griddlers in a creamy cheese sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce. You can also serve them alongside a bowl of warm tomato soup for a comforting and satisfying meal. The possibilities are endless!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a quick, easy, and delicious dinner. I’m confident that it will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your griddle, and get ready to create some culinary magic! And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me. I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and your overall thoughts on this Sausage Griddlers Quick Dinner. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you serve it with a unique side dish? Let me know in the comments below! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Happy griddling! I hope you enjoy this sausage griddler recipe as much as I do!