Lazy Microwave Pre-cooked Sausage & Canned Beets

Craving a meal that’s faster than deciding what to watch on Netflix? This 5-minute microwave dish skips pans, chopping, and cleanup while delivering savory sausage and earthy beets. We’re talking instant satisfaction with just two ingredients and a microwave-safe plate.

Zero chopping, zero prep stress—just grab pre-cooked sausage and canned beets from your pantry. Whether you’re post-workout, between Zoom calls, or simply embracing the art of lazy cooking, this combo is your new weeknight wingman.

Below, we’ll break down sausage varieties, beet alternatives, microwaving tricks, and even flavor upgrades to make this basic meal taste anything but basic.

What is This Lazy Microwave Dish?

Imagine a meal that’s faster than your microwave’s popcorn setting. Pre-cooked sausage and canned beets team up here for a protein-veggie duo requiring zero culinary skills. Just slice, heat, and shovel into your face—no chef’s kiss required.

My uncle Peter, a summer camp cook who mastered lazy meals for 200 hangry kids, taught me this combo during a heatwave when stoves were off-limits. We’d microwave Polish sausage coins and jewel-red beets, then eat straight from the paper bowls. It tasted like victory over effort.

Ingredients for Microwave Sausage & Beet Meal

You need two stars here: pre-cooked sausage (no raw meat drama) and canned diced beets (already softened). Keep additions like spices or toppings optional—laziness is the priority. For a quick meal, consider using lazy microwave pre-cooked sausage and canned diced tomatoes. This combination can create a tasty dish with minimal effort and time.

Pre-cooked Sausage Options and Substitutes

Smoked kielbasa, chicken apple sausage, or plant-based links work best. Avoid sausages with casings—they can toughen when microwaved. Out of sausage? Use diced ham or even canned tuna (yes, we’re rebels). If you’re looking for a quick meal, cooking smoked sausage in the microwave is a great option. It allows for a fast and easy way to enjoy your favorite sausages without the hassle of traditional cooking methods.

Pro tip: Check sodium levels! Many pre-cooked sausages pack 400-600mg per serving. Rinsing beets cuts their sodium by ~30% if you’re watching intake. For those looking for a quick meal, pairing lazy microwave pre-cooked sausage with canned peas can be a great option. This combination allows for a delicious and easy dish that saves time without sacrificing taste.

Canned Beet Varieties and Alternatives

Opt for plain diced beets in water (not vinegar or honey-glazed). Love golden beets? Go for it—they’re milder. Fresh beets take 8+ minutes to microwave (not lazy). Swap in canned carrots or peas if beets aren’t your jam. For a quick meal, consider pairing these beets with cheap microwave instant mashed potatoes and canned diced beets for a tasty and easy side dish. It’s a simple way to add nutrition and flavor to your meals without much effort.

Drain that beet juice unless you want pink splatters. I learned this after ruining Uncle Peter’s “World’s Okayest Counselor” tee. When it comes to creating vibrant drinks at home, consider fun recipes like a copycat Starbucks Pink Drink. Using a microwave berry base can simplify your preparation, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors without a trip to the café.

Got your ingredients? Let’s nuke them into submission.

How to Microwave Pre-cooked Sausage and Canned Beets

Let’s turn pantry staples into an actual meal. Total active time: 4 minutes 37 seconds (yes, I timed it during my last Netflix binge). You’ll need a microwave-safe plate, paper towel, and fork for sausage-juggling. Perfect for a quick meal, lazy microwave-prepped sausage can also be combined with canned soup for an effortless dish.

Step-by-step: Microwaving Pre-cooked Sausage

1. Slice sausage into ¼” coins (thicker = chewier)
2. Arrange in single layer on paper towel-lined plate
3. Cover with another paper towel to prevent grease fireworks
4. Microwave on 50% power for 60-90 seconds

Test one piece first—sausages vary wildly. My Trader Joe’s chicken apple links take 75 seconds, while Costco polish sausage needs 90. Stop when edges curl slightly like a relaxed smile. If you’re wondering how to cook sausage in the microwave, it’s all about timing and checking on them carefully as they heat up. Properly microwaving sausages can lead to a quick and tasty meal.

Step-by-step: Heating Canned Diced Beets

1. Drain beets thoroughly (save juice for pink pancakes?)
2. Spread ½ cup beets in microwave-safe bowl
3. Add 1 tsp water to prevent Sahara desert vibes
4. Cover with vented lid or paper towel
5. Microwave on high for 45-60 seconds

Stir halfway if you’re fancy. Beets hold heat like grudges—let sit 30 seconds before eating unless you enjoy molten lava mouth. Even when you cook beets in the microwave, they tend to retain heat.

Common Microwave Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the plate: Sausage coins need breathing room for even heating
• Using full power: 50% prevents rubbery textures (nobody wants bouncy meat)
• Skipping the paper towel: Grease splatters turn your microwave into modern art

Pro tip: Layer sausage and beets separately. Combining them pre-nuke makes the beets taste like hot dog water. For a truly effortless meal, consider using lazy microwave pre-cooked sausage and canned diced beets together, as these can create a quick and satisfying dish.

Also See: 2-minute Microwave Peanut Butter Banana Mug Pudding

Flavor Combinations and Serving Ideas

This dish is your culinary canvas. Add personality without extra prep using spices already in your rack or fridge orphans.

Seasoning Adjustments for Better Taste

Toss hot beets with:

• 1/4 tsp caraway seeds (for German vibes)
• Pinch of smoked paprika + garlic powder
• 1 tsp balsamic glaze (my fridge door staple)

Sprinkle sausage with everything bagel seasoning or red pepper flakes pre-microwave. Bonus hack: Brush coins with honey pre-heating for sticky-sweet edges.

Texture Enhancements and Toppings

• Crunch: Add pickled onions or crushed walnuts post-microwave
• Creaminess: Dollop of goat cheese or Greek yogurt
• Freshness: Microgreens or torn basil leaves

My college move? Crumbled saltines over beets for a “deconstructed casserole” experience. Judge me later. Easy meals like lazy microwave boxed mac cheese paired with canned diced beets can not only save time but also provide unique flavor combinations without much effort.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s tackle keeping leftovers edible (because even lazy meals sometimes outlive appetites). Elevating those leftovers can make a simple meal feel gourmet. With the right microwave tricks, transforming old food into something delicious is easier than you might think.

Also See: Lazy Microwave Mac and Cheese With Canned Diced Squash

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

This lazy microwave combo of pre-cooked sausage and canned diced beets delivers a protein-packed, veggie-loaded meal in under 5 minutes. We love how the sweet earthiness of beets balances the savory sausage—no fancy prep required.

Experiment with different sausage varieties (hello, spicy Italian!) or toss in some goat cheese crumbles for extra richness. Got a favorite lazy microwave hack? We’d love to hear about your quick-fix kitchen wins!