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 an easy dinner that’s packed with flavor and can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, then this dish is for you. This recipe has become a family favorite because it combines the savory goodness of kielbasa sausage with fresh broccoli and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this meal is sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal with loved ones!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness combined with the hearty kielbasa and vibrant broccoli.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky kielbasa and fresh veggies, creating a dish that’s full of comforting flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet so enjoyable to make. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

For the Pasta and Veggies

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

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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

For the Protein

• 13.9-ounce ring of kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-sized slices

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or pantry staples. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
• Use different cheese: Try cream cheese for an even richer sauce or a sharp cheddar for a deeper 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, toss in those beautiful broccoli florets. This way, they’ll retain their bright green color while becoming tender without losing their crunch! Once everything is cooked, drain it well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add those lovely slices of kielbasa and cook until they’re lightly browned—this should take about 5 minutes. Browning adds depth to their flavor and makes them even more delicious!

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Once your kielbasa is beautifully seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that will really elevate your dish.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and whole milk until fully combined; this will help thicken your sauce later. Pour this mixture into your skillet with all those tasty ingredients and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously until it thickens up nicely—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Now it’s time to make things truly creamy! Reduce the heat to low and gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s melted into that velvety sauce—this is where magic happens!

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently so that each piece is coated in that luscious creamy sauce. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste; this final touch brings all those flavors together beautifully! Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, serve hot straight from the skillet, and enjoy every bite!

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

Making this dish is a breeze, but a few handy tips can elevate your cooking experience and the final result!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality kielbasa will enhance the flavors and textures of your dish, making it even more satisfying.

• Adjust the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! A sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses can add a unique twist to the creamy sauce.

• Don’t skip the simmering: Allowing your milk mixture to simmer really helps thicken the sauce, creating that perfect creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta and veggies.

• Customize with spices: Don’t hesitate to spice things up! Adding some red pepper flakes or Italian herbs can give your skillet an extra kick of flavor.

• Make it a meal prep option: This dish stores well, making it ideal for meal prepping. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy another delicious serving!

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Serving this delightful skillet meal can be as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make presentation easy and enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch and a burst of color.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Although not traditional, sprinkling a bit of grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate. Its buttery, garlicky taste pairs wonderfully with this dish!

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.

• Steamed asparagus: Bright green asparagus spears offer a crunchy texture and complement the flavors in your skillet perfectly while also adding more nutrition.

• Roasted potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs serve as a hearty side that balances out the creaminess of the main dish.

Enjoy your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet like never before by incorporating these serving suggestions and pro tips! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! Whether you want to enjoy it throughout the week or save time on busy nights, this dish makes it easy to have a satisfying dinner ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out the servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet recipe!

Can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet without pasta?

Absolutely! You can skip the pasta altogether or substitute it with gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a lighter option.

How can I make my Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet healthier?

To create a healthier version, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing cheese. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach!

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap kielbasa with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a different flavor profile while keeping it light and delicious.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! It’s a comforting meal that brings together wonderful flavors in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s for family dinner or meal prep, I am sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!