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 perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious on the table in just 30 minutes. The blend of savory kielbasa sausage with fresh broccoli and a luscious creamy sauce makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich flavors and creamy texture of this skillet dish.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Deliciously Comforting: The combination of flavors creates a warm, cozy feeling that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful meal. Each one plays a crucial role in building that amazing flavor profile we love!

For the Pasta and Broccoli

• 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 Kielbasa

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken sausage instead for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a kick!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the 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 and Broccoli

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This way, both ingredients will be perfectly cooked together! After draining them, set them aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Browning adds depth and enhances its flavor—trust me; it’ll be worth it!

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once the kielbasa is nice and seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cooking these aromatics for an additional 2-3 minutes releases their natural sweetness and fills your kitchen with delightful scents.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with whole milk until fully combined—this will help thicken our sauce later! Pour this mixture into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 5: Cheese It Up!

Reduce the heat to low and gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese. Stirring until melted creates that creamy goodness we crave!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are coated in that dreamy creamy sauce! Season with salt and pepper to taste before garnishing with fresh parsley.

And there you have it—the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is ready to serve hot right from your skillet! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Creating the perfect Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is all about those little details that can elevate your dish from good to great! Here are some handy tips to ensure your meal is a hit.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality kielbasa and fresh broccoli will enhance the overall flavor of the dish, making it more enjoyable. Fresh ingredients bring a vibrant taste and nutritional value to your skillet.

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Adding the broccoli in the last two minutes of cooking the pasta ensures it stays bright green and crisp-tender. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its appealing texture.

• Whisk Cornstarch Thoroughly: When mixing cornstarch with milk, make sure it’s completely blended before adding it to the skillet. This prevents lumps from forming in your sauce, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency.

• Adjust Cheese to Taste: If you love cheese, feel free to add more than the recipe calls for! A cheesy sauce offers a richer flavor and can be tailored to suit your personal preference.

• Make It Your Own: Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. Customizing the dish allows you to experiment with flavors and textures that you enjoy most.

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Serving this delicious one-pan meal is as important as preparing it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can make your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet not only tasty but visually appealing too.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes on top can give your skillet an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A crusty garlic bread pairs beautifully with creamy dishes, allowing you to scoop up every last bit of sauce!
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and flavor while keeping things healthy. Think zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs.
• Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Serving your creamy skillet over rice or quinoa makes for a hearty meal that helps absorb all that delicious sauce!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick, delicious dinners throughout the week.

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

• Let the skillet cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, consume within a month to maintain flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the kielbasa with your favorite plant-based sausage or even chickpeas for added protein. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

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

This dish is designed to be quick! You’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.

What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?

While mild cheddar is recommended for its creaminess, you can also try gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile!

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just add them directly into the pot with the pasta during the last two minutes of cooking time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet! It’s truly a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and delightful textures—all in one pan. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite with your loved ones. Happy cooking!