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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- Transfer browned kielbasa to a plate, leaving flavorful drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in the same skillet until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour rice and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let the rice cook undisturbed for 15-18 minutes, allowing it to absorb the liquid and become tender.
- Introduce chopped broccoli florets and previously seared kielbasa back into the skillet, gently mixing with the rice.
- Continue cooking, covered, for an additional 5-6 minutes until broccoli reaches a crisp-tender texture.
- Remove skillet from heat and immediately fold in shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the dish.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 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