Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering, creamy, and comforting one-pan wonder – the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! If you’re looking for a dish that combines savory flavors with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is just what you need. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit at family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. You’ll love how the fresh broccoli and creamy sauce wrap around each bite of kielbasa sausage, making this dish truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your hectic schedule.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy sauce and tasty kielbasa—everyone’s happy!
• Nutrient-Packed: The fresh broccoli adds vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only delicious but also nourishing.
• Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your pantry staples or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet, you’ll only need simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful meal!

For the Skillet

• 8 ounces of penne pasta
• 2 cups (182 g) of fresh broccoli florets, quartered
• 13.9-ounce ring of kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-sized slices
• 1 1/2 cups (367.5 g) of whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups (169.5 g) of shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 small diced yellow onion (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option while keeping that savory flavor.
• Go veggie: Make it plant-based by substituting the kielbasa with veggie sausage or simply adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Add spices: Sprinkle in some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the quartered broccoli florets into the pot. This method allows the broccoli to cook perfectly while still retaining its bright color and crunch. Once cooked, drain both together and set them aside for later.

Step 2: Sauté Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add in the sliced kielbasa and let it cook until it’s lightly browned, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as browning caramelizes the edges of the sausage and brings out its rich flavor.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Once your kielbasa is beautifully seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook these together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This will build a fantastic base flavor for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Create Your Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with whole milk until fully combined—this will help thicken your sauce beautifully. Pour this mixture into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. In about 3-5 minutes, you’ll notice it thickening up nicely!

Step 5: Melt in Cheese

Now it’s time for that luscious creaminess! Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until it’s melted completely and smooth—this step guarantees a velvety texture that coats all your ingredients perfectly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently until each piece is well-coated in that creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste; don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley if you like! Serve hot directly from the skillet for a cozy dining experience.

Enjoy every bite of this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet—it’s bound to become one of your favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Creating a perfect creamy kielbasa broccoli skillet is all about a few simple tricks that can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality kielbasa make a significant difference in flavor. Fresh veggies retain more nutrients and enhance the overall taste, making your dish more vibrant and appealing.

• Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens properly before adding the cheese. This step ensures that the sauce has a rich, creamy texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.

• Customize your cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! While mild cheddar works wonderfully, trying sharp cheddar or even a blend of cheeses can add depth and complexity to your sauce.

• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go! Salt levels can vary depending on the sausage brand, so adjusting seasoning at the end ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced.

• Make it a meal prep star: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Prepare it ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners by reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave!

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Serving this creamy kielbasa broccoli skillet can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delicious dish beautifully and satisfyingly.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up each bite.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A light dusting of parmesan on top enhances the cheesy goodness and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, garlic bread brings a comforting crunch alongside your skillet dish.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers add depth and variety while being colorful on your plate.
• Steamed rice or quinoa: These options absorb flavors well and serve as a hearty base that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet will not only taste amazing but look fantastic on the table too. Enjoy every mouthful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Have questions about this recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy it later.

What can I substitute for kielbasa in this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Feel free to use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives. They will all work wonderfully with this creamy sauce!

How can I add more flavor to my Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

You can enhance the flavors by adding spices such as paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Is there a vegetarian alternative I can use in this recipe?

Yes! Swap out kielbasa with your favorite plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet as I am! It’s a cozy dish that brings together comfort and taste in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings or when you need something satisfying without all the fuss. Enjoy making it and feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Happy cooking!