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 dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to whip up on a busy weeknight or for a cozy family gathering, then this is the recipe for you. The combination of savory kielbasa sausage, fresh broccoli, and a luscious creamy sauce makes this meal a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it all comes together in just 30 minutes! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

One of the best parts of this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can have it on the table before you know it, making it perfect for those evenings when time is short but you still want something comforting and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy flavor and tender veggies.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies or swap out the kielbasa for your favorite protein!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheesy goodness and savory sausage is simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking even more enjoyable! For this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet, you’ll need:

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 incredibly flexible! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or even peas can be tossed in for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add hot sausage for a kick!
• Use different cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous.

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta forms the base of our dish. In the last two minutes of cooking time, toss in those fresh broccoli florets. This allows them to blanch just enough so they stay bright green and tender-crisp!

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add your sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s lightly browned—about five minutes should do! Browning not only adds flavor but also enhances the overall texture of your dish.

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Once your kielbasa is beautifully seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion turns soft and fragrant. This step brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with whole milk until fully combined. Pour this mixture into your skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. This helps thicken our sauce beautifully; about 3-5 minutes should be enough!

Step 5: Mix in Cheddar Cheese

Reduce your heat to low and gradually mix in that shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth—this step transforms your sauce into a creamy delight that clings perfectly to each pasta piece.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add your cooked pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together until each ingredient is coated in that rich creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste before garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot straight from the skillet, gather around your loved ones, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Making this creamy delight is a breeze, but here are some tips to ensure you achieve the ultimate deliciousness every time!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking helps streamline the process, making it even easier to whip up this meal in just 30 minutes.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets not only add vibrant color but also pack more nutrients and flavor compared to frozen. Plus, they provide a nice crunch that complements the creaminess of the sauce.

• Don’t Rush the Cheese Melting: Adding cheese too quickly can lead to clumps. Gradually mixing in the shredded cheddar allows it to melt smoothly into the sauce, creating that rich creaminess you want.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Adjust salt and pepper according to your personal preference throughout the cooking process, ensuring that every bite is just right.

• Consider Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish reheats well on the stove with a splash of milk, keeping it creamy and delicious for another meal!

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Serving your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is just as important as making it! Here are some fun ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan on top enhances the overall taste with its salty nuttiness, blending beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up that creamy goodness, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor that complements your main dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned steamed asparagus offers a delightful crunch and adds a touch of elegance to your dinner plate.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta dish.

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet truly embodies comfort food at its best – I hope you enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is not just a quick meal, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the skillet cool completely.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen skillet overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring every minute until warm.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe. Here are some common ones!

Can I make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers for easy reheating throughout the week.

What can I serve with Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for extra flavor!

Can I use another type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out penne pasta for any other short pasta you enjoy, like rotini or fusilli.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can use reduced-fat cheese and milk if you’re looking to cut down on calories without sacrificing creaminess!

How do I adjust the seasoning for Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?

Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, and feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together delicious flavors and creamy textures. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!