Quick & Cozy Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Whipping up a hearty kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet promises a delightful one-pan meal that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Comfort meets convenience in this simple yet flavorful combination.

Sausage lovers will appreciate the robust Polish-inspired dish that comes together quickly.

Crisp broccoli adds fresh crunch to the rich, savory landscape.

Melted cheese creates a creamy blanket that binds ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Home cooks appreciate how minimal effort yields maximum flavor in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet That Delivers

• Fuel Family Favorites: Packed with protein from kielbasa, nutritious broccoli, and comforting rice, this dish satisfies everyone from kids to adults with its hearty flavors.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like different cheeses, proteins, or vegetables to match your family's taste preferences and pantry contents.
• Quick Weeknight Meal Solution: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps mean you can have a delicious, complete meal on the table without complicated techniques or long preparation times.

Ingredients for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

• Kielbasa: A flavorful Polish sausage that adds richness and savory depth to the skillet dish.

• Broccoli, Onion, Garlic: Fresh vegetables that provide texture, aroma, and nutritional balance to the recipe.

• Rice, Chicken Broth, Olive Oil: The foundation of the dish that creates a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and creamy cheese that melts beautifully and adds a delicious cheesy flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the skillet.

How to Make Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

Step 1: Sizzle Kielbasa to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add sliced kielbasa and cook until edges turn crispy and golden brown, creating a delightful caramelized exterior.

Step 2: Create Aromatic Base

Remove kielbasa and set aside.

In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent and release their fragrant aroma, building a rich flavor foundation.

Step 3: Infuse Rice with Savory Broth

Add uncooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious liquid.

Step 4: Introduce Vibrant Broccoli and Kielbasa

Stir the previously cooked kielbasa and fresh broccoli florets into the rice.

Cover and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender-crisp and bright green.

Step 5: Melt Cheesy Goodness

Remove the skillet from heat.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, letting it melt into the warm rice and vegetables.

Season with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Transfer the skillet directly to the table, creating a rustic and inviting presentation.

Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the harmonious blend of smoky kielbasa, fluffy rice, and cheesy broccoli.

Tips for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

• Slice kielbasa evenly to ensure uniform browning and better caramelization for enhanced flavor.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
• Replace broccoli with cauliflower or green beans for variety and different nutritional profiles.
• Add shredded cheese off the heat to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
• Use the same skillet throughout cooking to maximize flavor and minimize cleanup time.

Variations on Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or extra-firm tofu, using vegetable broth for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates and create a lighter meal.
• Spicy Southwest Kick: Add diced jalapeños, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and mix in some chili powder for a zesty flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking broth and sausage labels for potential gluten contamination.

Serving Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

• Fresh Side Salad Pairing: Toss a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy skillet dish and add refreshing vegetable crunch.
• Crusty Bread Companion: Serve warm garlic bread or toasted French baguette slices alongside the skillet to soak up delicious cheesy sauce and add extra texture.
• Family-Style Presentation: Bring the entire skillet directly to the dining table for a casual, rustic meal where everyone can serve themselves and enjoy the hearty, comforting dish together.
• Wine or Beer Suggestion: Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a crisp lager that complements the savory kielbasa and cuts through the cheese's richness.

Storing Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness. Cover and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Is kielbasa precooked?

Yes, kielbasa is a fully cooked sausage, so it only needs to be heated through and browned for added flavor and texture.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly from the freezer and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through.

• What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice or instant rice. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly based on the rice type you choose.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or use a spicy variety of kielbasa to kick up the heat. You can also add a dash of hot sauce when serving for extra zing.

Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

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4.9 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet delivers comfort in one pan, blending smoky sausage with creamy cheese and tender vegetables. Generous portions promise satisfaction while minimal cleanup makes this meal a weeknight winner for hungry families.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein and Starches:

• 1 pound (454 grams) kielbasa, sliced
• 1 cup white rice

Vegetables:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, then sizzle kielbasa slices until golden and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Transfer browned kielbasa to a plate, leaving flavorful drippings in the skillet.
3. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in the same skillet until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour rice and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and let the rice cook undisturbed for 15-18 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid and become tender.
6. Introduce chopped broccoli florets and previously seared kielbasa back into the skillet, gently mixing with the rice.
7. Continue cooking, covered, for an additional 5-6 minutes until broccoli reaches a crisp-tender texture.
8. Remove skillet from heat and immediately fold in shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the dish.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
10. Serve immediately while the cheese is still creamy and the ingredients are piping hot.

Notes

• Opt for brown rice to boost nutritional value and add extra fiber to the dish.
• Swap kielbasa with turkey sausage for a leaner protein option that cuts down on calories.
• Customize the cheese by using a blend of sharp cheddar and monterey jack for more complex flavor profile.
• Enhance vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers or cauliflower alongside broccoli for additional nutrients and color variety.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 21 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg