Name: One Pot Sausage and Zucchini Stew (Polish Leczo)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 400 g (14 oz) smoked sausage (Polish kielbasa recommended), sliced; 2 large onions, diced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 large zucchinis (about 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs), sliced into half-moons; 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 2 large tomatoes; 2 tsp Italian herbs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 black pepper; pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

5.0 from 3 votes

JUMP TO RECIPE PRINT RECIPE

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, this sausage and zucchini stew is just what you need! It’s made with smoky Polish sausage, sweet zucchini and juicy tomatoes. This one-pot recipe comes together in under 45 minutes. It’s hearty, comforting and perfect for serving with crusty bread or boiled potatoes.

one pot sausage and zucchini stew (Polish leczo)

This recipe always takes me back to summer days in Poland. My mum used to grow zucchinis in her garden and every August our kitchen turned into a leczo-making factory. We’d slice heaps of fresh zucchini, chop tomatoes straight from the vine and simmer everything together with smoky sausage until the whole house smelled incredible. It was one of those dishes we made all summer long. Simple, filling and perfect for sharing around the table.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Seasonal and fresh: A perfect way to use up summer zucchinis and tomatoes.
Quick and hearty: Ready in under 45 minutes, yet filling enough for dinner.
Full of smoky flavor: Polish sausage adds that comforting, savory depth.

Looking for more cozy dinners? Browse my Comfort Food Recipes.

WHAT IS SAUSAGE AND ZUCCHINI STEW (POLISH LECZO)

This sausage and zucchini stew, also known as zucchini leczo in Poland, is a rustic one-pot meal made with smoky sausage, zucchini, onions, garlic and tomatoes. It’s similar to a Hungarian lecsó or French ratatouille, but with a heartier, meatier twist. Traditionally served with bread or potatoes, it’s a staple summer dish across Poland full of garden-fresh flavor.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Smoked sausage: I recommend smoked Polish kielbasa for the best flavor.
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Use fresh, firm zucchinis for the best texture.
Onions & garlic: Build a flavorful base.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes add sweetness and tang.
Olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and onions.
Italian herbs: A simple herbs mix gives a classic flavor.
Salt, pepper & cayenne: To season and add just a hint of heat.

HOW TO MAKE SAUSAGE AND ZUCCHINI STEW

Please note: This is just an overview – the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Season zucchini

Place sliced zucchini in a large bowl and toss with Italian herbs, salt, pepper and a pinch of cayenne. Set aside to let it release some moisture while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the onions

Add diced onions to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent.

one pot sausage and zucchini stew (Polish leczo) - step 2: cook sausage and onion

Step 4: Add zucchini and garlic

Stir in the seasoned zucchini (with any juices from the bowl) and sliced garlic. Cover with a lid and let it cook until the zucchini is tender.

one pot sausage and zucchini stew (Polish leczo) - step 3: add zucchini

Step 5: Add tomatoes

Peel and chop the tomatoes, add them to the pot, and cook uncovered for a few more minutes to bring all the flavors together.

one pot sausage and zucchini stew (Polish leczo) - step 4: add tomatoes

Step 6: Taste & serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with boiled potatoes or crusty bread.

STORING AND FREEZING

To store:
Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

To freeze:
This stew freezes really well! Cool it completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop.

NOTES FROM MY KITCHEN

There’s something so special about a big pot of sausage and zucchini stew bubbling away on the stove! It smells like home to me. Growing up in Poland, summer meant one thing: zucchinis everywhere. Sometimes we’d make a huge pot of this leczo just to share with neighbors or freeze for later. Trust me, nothing tastes better on a chilly winter evening than a bowl of summer captured in a stew.

I love how flexible this dish is. If I have bell peppers, I throw them in. If I feel like a little more heat, I add extra cayenne or a pinch of smoked paprika. I serve it over boiled potatoes (the most Polish way!) or with a thick slice of crusty bread to mop up all the juices.

Another reason I adore this recipe is how low-effort it is. Once the zucchini is in the pot, most of the work is done. You just let it simmer gently until it’s soft and sweet. The whole process is simple, cozy and perfect for a weeknight dinner when you don’t feel like fussing around in the kitchen but still want something hearty and homemade.

You may also enjoy…

One Pot Peri Peri Chicken and Rice

One Pot Shrimp Noodle Soup

Easy Finnish Salmon Soup

Creamy Chicken Stew

FAQ

Can I make this sausage and zucchini stew vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the sausage or swap it for a plant-based smoked sausage. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to make it heartier.

Do I have to peel the zucchini?
Nope. There’s no need to peel zucchini for this recipe. The skin softens as it cooks and adds extra flavor and nutrients.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely. If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, use a 400 g (14 oz) can of chopped tomatoes. Drain off most of the liquid before adding them to the pot so your stew doesn’t become too watery.

How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?
Be careful not to overcook it. Simmer just until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape.

What should I serve with sausage and zucchini stew?
It’s delicious with boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes or a slice of crusty bread.

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