Au Gratin Sausage Skillet

This recipe was given to me by someone... unfortunately, I can't remember who the heck it was. I know I started making this the first winter we lived in Alaska, but there is where my memory ends. Whoever gave this to me though, has my eternal thanks, because this dish is GREAT!

Au Gratin Sausage Skillet

1 pound cooked kielbasa or polish sausage, halved and sliced 1/2 an inch thick
2 TBSP canola oil
1 (5.25 oz) package Au Gratin potatoes ( I generally use the Betty Crocker brand, but any type will do, I think!)
2 1/2 cups of water
1 (8 oz) package frozen California Blend vegetables
1 to 2 cups (4-8 oz)shredded cheddar cheese

In a skillet, cook sausage in oil until lightly browned. Add potatoes with contents of sauce packet and water. Cover and cook over medium heat 18-20 minutes or until potatoes are almost tender, stirring occasionally. Add veggies. Stir. Cover and cook again 8-10 minutes or until veggies and potatoes are tender. Sprinkle with the amount of cheese you would like. Cover and remove from heat. Let stand for about 2 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

I like to serve this with a fresh green salad, or cut up fresh veggies. A nice, fresh roll or biscuits is awesome too, if you have the time to make some. An alternative...use the freezer rolls that you can just pop in the oven and bake straight from the freezer. They're pretty tasty too, and QUICK!