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 quick and satisfying meal that brings the family together, this recipe is just what you need. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet delicious enough to impress at family gatherings. The blend of savory kielbasa, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce makes this dish a favorite in my household. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup! Everything cooks together in one skillet, making it super convenient.
• Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, even the pickiest eaters will love this meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies or pasta you have on hand to make it your own!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of kielbasa and cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe doesn’t call for anything fancy—just good food that tastes amazing. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

The Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you like some heat in your meals.

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets right into the pot. This method saves time and ensures both ingredients are perfectly cooked together. Drain them afterward and set aside while we prepare the rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add the sliced kielbasa and let it cook until it’s lightly browned—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Browning adds depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special!

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Once your kielbasa has that beautiful golden color, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step builds flavor layers in your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with whole milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into your skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. This will help thicken your sauce beautifully within about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Now it’s time for some cheesy goodness! Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and combined into a smooth sauce—this is where all that creamy magic happens!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, toss in your cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with that luscious sauce. Mix everything well so every bite is coated with creaminess! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot straight from the skillet—garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy!

Enjoy this delightful meal that comes together quickly yet tastes like you’ve spent hours cooking!

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

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so let’s make your experience with this creamy delight a breeze!

• Prep ingredients ahead of time: Chopping the broccoli, slicing the kielbasa, and measuring out your cheese can save you precious minutes during cooking. This way, you’ll focus on enjoying the process rather than rushing through it.

• Use a large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding. This ensures that everything gets that lovely sear and cooks evenly, making your dish even more delicious.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has their own preference when it comes to salt and pepper. Taste as you go! This will help you create a dish that’s perfectly suited to your palate.

• Experiment with cheese: While mild cheddar is delightful, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick. Changing up the cheese can give the dish a new depth of flavor every time you make it!

• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the stove while it’s still warm and creamy. If it sits too long, it may thicken up, so have your plates ready!

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Presentation can elevate any meal, so let’s explore some fun ways to serve your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan on top enhances the creaminess and introduces a savory depth.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly (plus, it’s great for soaking up that luscious sauce!).
• Mixed green salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet dish. Toss in some cherry tomatoes or cucumber for added crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers bring vibrant colors and texture to your meal, making for a well-rounded dinner.
• Steamed rice: A side of fluffy steamed rice is another fantastic pairing; it allows you to savor every bit of that creamy sauce.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal in just 30 minutes — happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish in advance, allowing for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warm, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use different vegetables in my Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or green beans according to your preference. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.

How do I make my Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet spicier?

For a kick of spice, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the kielbasa. Adjust according to your taste!

Can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet dairy-free?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free milk alternative and a dairy-free cheese substitute to create a deliciously creamy dish without the dairy.

How long does it take to prepare the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

This recipe is designed for quick preparation and cooking, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Certainly! You can replace kielbasa with a plant-based sausage or any hearty vegetable like mushrooms or zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! It’s not just easy and quick but also wonderfully comforting—a true favorite for busy weeknights. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies. Happy cooking!