Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner
Do you ever find yourself craving a comforting and delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner! This one-pan wonder combines tasty Polska kielbasa, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness to create a dish that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your heart. Perfect for cozy nights in, this recipe is not just about simplicity; it’s about bringing joy to your dining table.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed hearty meals that brought us together at the dinner table. One of our favorites was a skillet dish made with sausage and whatever fresh veggies we had on hand. As I got older, I wanted to recreate that warm feeling and share it with my own family. That’s when I developed this Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner recipe. It’s a tribute to those cherished memories, but with my own twist that adds a cheesy layer of comfort.
What Makes This Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and ease. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheese blends, making it a dish that suits your taste preferences perfectly. The combination of savory kielbasa, tender broccoli, and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
The Full Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces Polska Kielbasa, sliced on a diagonal
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup white rice, long grain, uncooked
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock or chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets, bite-size pieces, raw
- 2 cups shredded cheese, divided (cheddar blend)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large, lidded skillet. This ensures even cooking.
- Brown the kielbasa in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and bell pepper until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to scrape off the brown bits for extra flavor.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Continue stirring for 1-2 more minutes to toast the rice lightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Without disturbing the rice, add the broccoli florets on top. Cover again and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
- Stir in the browned kielbasa and 1 cup of the shredded cheese until well combined.
- Top with the remaining cup of cheese. Cover with a lid and let sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner
This Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete dining experience. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or even corn. You can also try different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for extra stretchiness. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cooked sausage, such as chicken or beef, if you prefer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check your rice package.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook it fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated easily.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can add more vegetables or use brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. Using low-fat cheese is also an option!
Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner
Equipment
- Large lidded skillet Ideal for even cooking and easy serving.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces Polska Kielbasa sliced on a diagonal
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 small bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup white rice long grain, uncooked
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 cups broccoli florets bite-size pieces, raw
- 2 cups shredded cheese divided (cheddar blend)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large, lidded skillet.
- Brown the kielbasa in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and bell pepper until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to scrape off the brown bits for extra flavor.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Continue stirring for 1-2 more minutes to toast the rice lightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Without disturbing the rice, add the broccoli florets on top. Cover again and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
- Stir in the browned kielbasa and 1 cup of the shredded cheese until well combined.
- Top with the remaining cup of cheese. Cover with a lid and let sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.