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 recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is just what you need. It’s so easy to prepare and packed with flavor that everyone will ask for seconds. The combination of savory kielbasa, crisp broccoli, and a luscious creamy sauce makes this meal an ultimate delicious choice for any occasion.

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe when time is tight but you still want something hearty and satisfying. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful dish together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet. Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, even picky eaters will love this dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt it to include your favorite veggies or substitute proteins as needed.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich, creamy sauce combined with hearty kielbasa makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet. These are items you might already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Pasta and Veggies

• 8 ounces of penne pasta
• 2 cups (182 g) of fresh broccoli florets, quartered

For the Skillet Sauce

• 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! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead of kielbasa for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

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 broccoli florets to the pot. This method ensures that both ingredients cook perfectly together without overcooking the broccoli. Drain everything well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s lightly browned—about 5 minutes—stirring occasionally. Browning enhances the flavor of the sausage and gives it a lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Once your kielbasa is beautifully seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that make your dish irresistible.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch into whole milk until fully combined. Pour this mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring continuously until it thickens—about 3-5 minutes. A thick sauce helps cling to every piece of pasta!

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese

Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth; this creates that delightful creaminess we all love in comfort food.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in that creamy goodness. Season with salt and pepper to taste before garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot straight from the skillet for an inviting family dinner.

Enjoy making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! It’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals that warms both heart and home!

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

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some pro tips to make your experience even better!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time: Chop your onions, garlic, and broccoli before you start cooking. This will save you valuable time when you’re ready to throw everything together.

• Use Frozen Broccoli: If you’re short on time or fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen broccoli works just as well! It’s pre-cut and cooks quickly, making it a convenient alternative.

• Experiment with Cheese: While mild cheddar is delicious, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try adding pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor to enhance the creaminess.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little milk. For a thinner sauce, just add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

• Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. The skillet dish is versatile and can be customized to fit your taste!

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

When it comes to serving this creamy delight, presentation can enhance the enjoyment of your meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top for a spicy finish.
• Lemon Zest: Grate a little lemon zest over the dish right before serving. This adds a wonderful citrus aroma and brightens up the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic companion, garlic bread complements the creamy texture of the skillet dish perfectly. Plus, it’s great for sopping up any leftover sauce!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the skillet. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers bring out natural sweetness through caramelization and add healthy fiber to your meal.
• Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Serve your creamy kielbasa skillet over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This not only stretches the meal but also adds another layer of texture.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

The Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is not only a delightful meal to whip up in a hurry, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! Making this dish in advance can save you time during busy weeknights while still providing a delicious and comforting dinner option.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label your container with the date so you know when to enjoy it by!

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Add a splash of milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet:

Can I use a different type of sausage for this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Absolutely! You can substitute kielbasa with any cooked sausage of your choice, like chicken or turkey sausage. Just ensure it’s pre-cooked, as you’ll be warming it through in the skillet.

How can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace whole milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese. This way, you can still enjoy that creamy texture without any dairy products!

Is it possible to add more vegetables to this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly if you’re adding denser vegetables.

What can I serve with Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for sopping up that creamy sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet as I am! It’s a fantastic dish that brings comfort and flavor together in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this recipe will surely impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts once you’ve tried it. Happy cooking!