Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious one-pan meal? Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a savory dish packed with flavors from smoky kielbasa sausage, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling and nutritious but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a favorite, offering protein, veggies, and carbs all in one pan!

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious dish, along with helpful tips, substitutions, and variations to make it your own. Ready to get started? Let’s cook!

What Is Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet?

The Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a one-pan meal made by combining sautéed kielbasa, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli with a cheesy sauce. Kielbasa, a flavorful Polish sausage, adds a smoky, savory element to the dish, while broccoli gives it a boost of freshness and nutrition. The rice and cheese sauce help bring everything together for a creamy, filling meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for weeknights because it’s made in one skillet, meaning fewer dishes to wash and a quicker cleanup! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple and tasty dish:

• 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, making this an accessible meal for any home cook.

Substitutions and Variations

There are many ways to customize this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Kielbasa: You can swap kielbasa with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage alternatives.
• Rice: While white rice is classic, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a more nutritious twist. Cauliflower rice is also an option if you’re looking to reduce carbs.
• Cheese: Cheddar is delicious in this dish, but feel free to use any melty cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Broccoli: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, swap it out for other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or peas. You can also use frozen broccoli to save time.
• Milk and Cream Sauce: You can use half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer sauce, or replace the milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version (just make sure to use a dairy-free cheese as well).
• Spices: Add a little paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, or toss in some Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on what you have on hand—this skillet meal is flexible and easy to adapt!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to make this tasty Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet.

Step 1: Cook the Rice and Steam the Broccoli

If you haven’t already cooked your rice, start by preparing 1 ½ cups of rice according to the package instructions. You can use any type of rice you like—white, brown, or even a wild rice blend.

While the rice is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender but still slightly crisp. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa and Onions

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the sausage is browned on both sides. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it starts to thicken.

Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and browned kielbasa back into the skillet. Stir everything together so that the rice, sausage, and broccoli are evenly coated in the cheese sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is hot and cheesy, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy meal!

How to Cook Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a breeze if you follow these key steps:

1. Cook your rice and steam the broccoli.
2. Brown the kielbasa and sauté the onions.
3. Make a creamy, cheesy sauce using a simple roux with broth and milk.
4. Combine everything in the skillet and let the cheese melt.

With just a few simple steps and one skillet, you’ll have a hearty and delicious meal on the table in no time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet:

1. Overcooking the Broccoli: Be sure to steam or blanch the broccoli just until tender. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its bright green color.
2. Burning the Sausage: Kielbasa browns quickly, so keep an eye on it and flip it when it’s nicely caramelized. You want crispy edges, not burnt sausage.
3. Not Thickening the Sauce: If your cheese sauce is too runny, let it cook for a bit longer to thicken up. Adding the flour slowly and whisking well will help prevent lumps.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This skillet meal is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are some ideas to complete the meal:

• Serve with a Side Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad pairs nicely with the rich, cheesy flavors of the dish.
• Add Some Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a slice of crusty French bread to soak up any extra cheesy sauce.
• Top with Extra Garnishes: Add extra garnishes like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet

For a cozy, family-style presentation, serve this dish directly from the skillet on the stovetop or table. Add a few colorful garnishes like fresh herbs, and your dish will be as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prep this dish ahead by cooking the rice and steaming the broccoli earlier in the day. When it’s time to cook, simply reheat the ingredients in the skillet.
• Freezing: This skillet meal freezes well. Simply let it cool, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even andouille sausage for a spicier flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and broccoli ahead of time and assemble the dish when ready. It’s also great for meal prep, as it reheats well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, and ensure that your sausage is gluten-free.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just steam it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with smoky kielbasa, tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and plenty of cheese, making it a comfort food favorite that your family will love. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. So grab your skillet and get ready to make a delicious meal that’s both comforting and nutritious!

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