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 delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this is it. This dish has become a family favorite in my home for its easy preparation and delightful taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something cozy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re hosting friends or just whipping up dinner for your loved ones, this recipe shines at any occasion. With its rich creamy sauce, tender broccoli, and savory kielbasa, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it all comes together in just 30 minutes — what could be better than that?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• One-pan meal: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.
• Family-friendly: The creamy sauce and flavorful kielbasa make this a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort food at its best: The creamy texture and savory flavors will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is simple and convenient. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store! These wholesome ingredients come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal.

For the Pasta and Veggies

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

For the 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 variations you can try to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage instead of kielbasa for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like heat!
• Gluten-free option: 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

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Adding the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking ensures they remain bright green and tender-crisp. Once cooked, drain the mixture well and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Adding sliced kielbasa here allows it to brown slightly, enhancing its flavor. Cook until lightly browned — about five minutes — stirring occasionally so that every piece gets that lovely golden touch.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Next, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cooking these aromatics together brings out their sweetness and adds depth to your dish. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch into whole milk until fully combined. Pour this mixture into your skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously; this helps thicken your sauce beautifully within about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Lower the heat to low before gradually mixing in shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until completely melted — this is where your sauce transforms into that irresistible creamy delight!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add in the cooked pasta and broccoli from earlier, tossing them together until every piece is coated in that dreamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot straight from the skillet.

Enjoy every bite of this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet; it’s truly a comforting dish that brings people together!

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

Cooking should be a joyful experience, so here are some handy tips to ensure your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep your ingredients first: Take a few minutes to chop your onion, garlic, and broccoli before you start cooking. This not only speeds up the process but also allows you to focus on perfecting those flavors while everything is fresh.
• Don’t rush the cheese melting: When adding the cheddar cheese, reduce the heat to low and mix it in gradually. This ensures that the cheese melts smoothly without clumping, giving you that creamy texture we all love.
• Taste as you go: After mixing in salt and pepper, take a moment to taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning to your preference; sometimes a little extra salt or pepper is all it needs to bring everything together.
• Use leftover veggies: Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand! Peas, bell peppers, or even spinach can enhance both the nutrition and flavor of this dish.
• Make it ahead of time: If you’re meal prepping, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Serving up this delightful skillet meal is just as important as making it! Presenting it nicely can turn an everyday dinner into something special.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top adds both visual appeal and an extra kick of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy skillet dish. It’s great for scooping up any leftover sauce!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crunchy texture and vibrant color alongside your skillet meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors of the kielbasa while providing additional nutrients for a well-rounded meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet will be an absolute hit at dinner time! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is not only a delight to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights, making dinner a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer, making weeknight dinners effortless.

What can I use instead of kielbasa in this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

You can substitute kielbasa with chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Both alternatives will work wonderfully with the creamy sauce!

How do I make my Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you take as much joy in making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this delightful dish. Happy cooking!