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 and delicious meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, look no further. This dish is a favorite of mine because it combines savory kielbasa sausage with fresh broccoli and a luscious creamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your home.

What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for those evenings when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still satisfying your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy kielbasa broccoli skillet is ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy nights when time is tight.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious flavors and creamy texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Feel free to swap vegetables or proteins based on your preferences.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich cheese sauce combined with the hearty kielbasa creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather them up, and let’s get cooking.

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! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version while keeping all that delicious flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other favorites like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to increase the veggie goodness.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat in your dishes!

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to package instructions. In the last two minutes of cooking time, add the quartered broccoli florets to the pot. This method allows the broccoli to cook perfectly without losing its vibrant color or crunch. Once done, drain both together and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s lightly browned, about five minutes. Searing the sausage enhances its flavor and adds depth to the dish. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Once the kielbasa is seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another two to three minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that make each bite delightful!

Step 4: Prepare the 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—this usually takes about three to five minutes. A thick sauce helps coat all those yummy ingredients beautifully.

Step 5: Melt in Cheese

Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth; this creates that irresistible creamy texture we all love!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently until well coated with that luscious creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste before garnishing with fresh parsley if you’d like! Serve hot straight from the skillet for maximum warmth and comfort.

Enjoy every bite of your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet—it’s truly ultimate deliciousness on your dinner table!

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

With just a few simple tips, you can elevate your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet to perfection!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having your ingredients prepped and measured out before you start cooking will save you time and make the cooking process smoother. This way, you won’t feel rushed and can enjoy the experience of creating your dish.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Opting for fresh broccoli instead of frozen not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color and crunch to the dish. Fresh veggies will help retain their nutrients and provide that delightful crispness.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the penne pasta al dente ensures that it retains a slight bite, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up in the skillet.

• Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Mixing in some pepper jack or mozzarella can give your dish an exciting twist while keeping it creamy and delicious.

• Make It Ahead: This skillet dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the skillet.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper not only enhances the flavors but also adds a touch of sophistication to your dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly while providing a satisfying texture contrast. Plus, who doesn’t love dipping bread into delicious sauces?

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the skillet. The freshness from vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes will keep your meal light.

• Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add a lovely crunch and are easy to prepare! Their bright green color also mirrors that of broccoli, making your plate visually appealing.

• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs well with the creaminess of this skillet. They’re filling and utterly comforting!

Embrace these serving suggestions, and enjoy every bite of your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! This delicious one-pan meal is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the dish is cooled completely and portioned into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, consider freezing without the pasta and adding it fresh when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is ideal for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above, and you can enjoy it throughout the week.

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

You can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage as a leaner alternative. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage or even chickpeas for added protein.

How can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet healthier?

Consider reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat milk. You could also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase its nutritional value.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well too; just add it directly to the pasta during cooking. It may require a little extra time to become tender.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet as much as I do! It’s such a comforting, satisfying meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or part of your weekly meal prep, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Happy cooking!