As I stood in my kitchen, the aromas of sizzling kielbasa and tender broccoli whisked me back to my childhood, where cozy family meals filled our home with warmth. This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is a delightful nod to those nostalgic flavors, blending savory sausage with vibrant veggies in a dreamy cheese sauce. With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, this dish not only satisfies those comforting cravings but also makes for a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy on the schedule and big on taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, allowing for minimal cleanup while still serving up a hearty meal everyone at the table will love. Are you ready to whip up a dish that will bring smiles and seconds? Let’s dive into this creamy goodness together!
Why is this skillet a must-try?
Simplicity in preparation makes this dish perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Deliciously creamy sauce envelops every bite, combining kielbasa and broccoli for a flavor-packed meal. One-pan wonder ensures easy cleanup, so you can enjoy more time with loved ones. Crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds! For a delightful pairing, check out my suggestions for serving suggestions to round out your dinner.
Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet Ingredients
Discover how to create this comforting dish with the following ingredients!
For the Pasta and Vegetables
• 8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold that creamy sauce.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – adds vibrant color and a healthy crunch.
For the Kielbasa and Sauce
• 13.9 ounces kielbasa sausage – adds a smoky, savory depth to your dish.
• 1 ½ cups whole milk – creates that luscious creamy texture.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese – melts beautifully for a rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – enhances the flavors as you sauté.
• 1 small yellow onion – brings sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – offers a delightful punch of flavor.
For Seasoning
• Salt to taste – essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Pepper to taste – adds a touch of warmth to the dish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet
Step 1: Boil the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. In the final 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. Drain the pasta and broccoli mixture, setting it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until frothy. Add the sliced kielbasa and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned and caramelized. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it's time to add the next ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic
Stir in the diced yellow onion and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic into the skillet with the kielbasa. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent, stirring regularly to prevent burning. The combination of these ingredients will create a fragrant base for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk the cornstarch into 1 ½ cups of whole milk until smooth and fully incorporated. Carefully pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, watching as it thickens within 3-5 minutes, turning velvety smooth for your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add 1 ½ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted, resulting in a rich and creamy sauce. The cheese should blend seamlessly, creating a luscious coating that embraces the kielbasa and vegetables.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta and Broccoli
Finally, add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, tossing everything together gently until well-coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor that enhances the dish. Let it warm through for a minute before plating, making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet a hearty delight.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its creaminess.
Freezer: You can freeze this creamy dish for up to 2 months. Divide it into portions in freezer-safe containers, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess as needed.
Freshness Tip: For best taste and texture, enjoy your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet within the first few days of refrigerating.
What to Serve with Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet
A delightful meal deserves equally charming companions to elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy with a warm, buttery flavor, it’s an irresistible side for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light, crunchy salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the skillet, making every bite refreshing. Try a tangy vinaigrette to enhance the flavors further.
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Roasted Potatoes: These golden bites offer a satisfying contrast in texture, making each mouthful a delightful adventure on the plate. Their crispiness pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the dish.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender and vibrant, asparagus brings a pop of color and a light crunch, harmonizing well with the hearty pasta and kielbasa.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the richness of the cheese, brightening your palate between bites.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note; the warm, spiced apples with a buttery topping create a cozy finish after the savory main course.
Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet Variations
Feel free to expand your flavor horizons and customize this delicious dish to suit any palate!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta for a delightful dish everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and cashew cheese instead of whole milk and cheddar for a creamy, non-dairy option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet for a fiery twist that excites the senses!
- Veggie-Packed: Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to add color and nutrients. Each addition brings its own unique flavor, creating a hearty medley.
- Smoky Flavor: Swap out kielbasa for smoked turkey sausage or andouille sausage for a deeper smoky taste that dances on the tongue.
- Protein Boost: Toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein, making it even more satisfying and nutritious.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can elevate the flavor profile dramatically. Their aromatic qualities will add depth to every luscious bite.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a hint of spice or gouda for a melty, smoky flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these variations, creating a dish that's uniquely your own. If you're looking for more ideas, check out my tips on serving suggestions and how to enhance the flavor of your dishes!
Tips for the Best Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always boil the penne pasta until just al dente; it’ll soak up the sauce without becoming mushy.
Brown the Kielbasa: Take the time to sauté the kielbasa until it's deeply browned; this enhances the flavor and adds a lovely caramelization.
Add Broccoli Last: To keep your broccoli vibrant and crisp, add it to the boiling pasta just two minutes before draining.
Whisk Milk and Cornstarch: Ensure the cornstarch is fully mixed with milk to avoid lumps in your creamy sauce for the perfect texture.
Season Gradually: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed; seasoning in stages enhances the overall flavor of the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and broccoli mixture up to 24 hours in advance by cooking them as directed in the recipe. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days; just avoid adding the cheese until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your dish, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the cheese, and combine with the pasta and broccoli for that creamy goodness, making dinner a breeze for busy weeknights!
Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe broccoli for this dish?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant green broccoli florets that are firm and free of dark spots or yellowing. Fresh broccoli should feel crisp, and the florets should be tightly packed. If it has dark spots all over or a strong odor, it’s best to pass it up for this creamy skillet.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After letting your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet cool, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This way, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days! Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
Can I freeze Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?
Absolutely! To freeze, divide the skillet into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn, and it will maintain its delicious flavor for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, try the following: ensure you brought the milk mixture to a simmer and stirred continuously. If it remains runny after a few minutes, you can mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of cold milk, then gradually stir it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
Is this recipe safe for people with dairy allergies?
If dairy is an issue, simply substitute the whole milk and cheddar cheese with dairy-free alternatives, like almond or oat milk and vegan cheese. Just ensure that your kielbasa is free from dairy as well, as some brands may include milk products. Be mindful of labels to cater to dietary restrictions!
Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare it ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately and store them in sealed containers in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, reheat in a skillet and combine before adding your sautéed kielbasa and broccoli. This keeps everything fresh while saving you valuable time during meal prep!
Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet: A Comforting Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. In the final 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. Drain the pasta and broccoli mixture, setting it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until frothy. Add the sliced kielbasa and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned and caramelized.
- Stir in the diced yellow onion and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic into the skillet with the kielbasa. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk the cornstarch into 1 ½ cups of whole milk until smooth. Carefully pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat until it thickens within 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly add 1 ½ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted.
- Finally, add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well-coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it warm through before serving.
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