KIELBASA BROCCOLI SKILLET: DINNER!

Okay, friend, let’s be real. Weeknights can be a culinary battlefield, right? You’re staring into the fridge, wondering what on earth you can whip up that’s both delicious *and* quick. Well, say goodbye to that stress because I’m about to share my absolute go-to recipe: a Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet-Easy Dinner that’s ready in a flash and will have everyone begging for seconds! Get ready for a flavor explosion that requires minimal effort – trust me, this will become your new best friend.

Gathering Your Golden Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s all easily accessible stuff!

For the Creamy, Dreamy Skillet:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage: Sliced into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 medium onion: Chopped, because aromatics are key!
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced, for that extra punch.
• 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen (thawed).
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Because cheese makes everything better.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, of course!
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a little kick.

Step-by-Step to Skillet Supper Success

Let’s dive right in! This is so simple, you’ll be amazed.

Creating Your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the kielbasa sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This adds so much flavor!
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; softened onions release their sweetness.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Watch it closely, garlic burns easily!
5. Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth to the skillet.
6. Cover and cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
9. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy every single bite!

The Kielbasa Kind: Choosing Your Sausage Star

Kielbasa is the heart of this dish, so let’s talk choices! There are a few different types of kielbasa you can use, and each will give a slightly different flavor profile.

• Smoked Kielbasa: This is probably the most common and readily available type. It has a robust, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the broccoli and creamy sauce.
• Fresh Kielbasa: If you can find fresh kielbasa (often found at Polish delis), grab it! It has a milder flavor than smoked, allowing the other ingredients to shine, and it tends to be a bit juicier. You’ll just need to make sure it’s cooked through completely.
• Turkey Kielbasa: For a lighter option, turkey kielbasa works great! It’s lower in fat but still delivers that satisfying sausage flavor.

No matter which you choose, make sure it’s good quality! It really makes a difference.

Broccoli Bliss: Fresh vs. Frozen

Now, let’s tackle the broccoli situation. Should you use fresh or frozen? The answer is: whatever works best for you! Both are perfectly acceptable, and here’s what to consider:

• Fresh Broccoli: If you’re using fresh, make sure the florets are bright green and firm. Wash them well and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
• Frozen Broccoli: Frozen broccoli is super convenient and often just as nutritious as fresh. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet, otherwise, it will release too much water. You can thaw it in the microwave or simply let it sit in a colander for a bit.

Creamy Dreamy: The Sauce Secrets

The sauce is where the magic happens! Here are a few tips for achieving that perfect creamy texture:

• Don’t boil the cream: Once you add the heavy cream, reduce the heat to low and simmer gently. Boiling can cause the cream to separate.
• Parmesan Power: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting. The pre-shredded stuff often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Thickness Control: If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.

Spice It Up (or Not!): Customizing Your Skillet

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
• Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of mozzarella would be fantastic.
• Spice It Up: As mentioned before, red pepper flakes add a nice kick. You could also try adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make It a Meal: Serve this over rice, pasta, or quinoa for a more substantial meal.

Serving Suggestions: Completing the Culinary Picture

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Bread on the Side: Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple side salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.

Skillet Siblings: Recipes You’ll Adore

If you’re loving the ease and deliciousness of skillet meals, then you *have* to check out these other fantastic recipes. They’re all quick, easy, and packed with flavor!

• Craving cheesy comfort food? You’ll absolutely adore BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP, perfect for a cozy night in.
• For a hearty and satisfying meal, the KIELBASA POTATO SOUP is a surefire winner.
• And if you want to level up your soup game, try the BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP – it’s the best for a reason!
• If you love kielbasa and are looking for another easy dinner idea, you should try Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage!
• Looking for something that cooks itself? Then the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is your best friend!

Leftover Love: Reheating and Storage

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big “if”!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store the skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to rehydrate the sauce. You can also microwave it, but it might not be as creamy.

Craving More? Discovering the Ultimate Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

Now that you’re armed with all the knowledge and inspiration to create this delicious Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet, I have to suggest you try the original KIELBASA BROCCOLI SKILLET recipe! I promise you, it’s a game-changer. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that your whole family will love!

Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

Amelia Chen-Morrison

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution, ready in minutes. It features flavorful kielbasa sausage and tender-crisp broccoli in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Garlic mincer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Lid for skillet

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen thawed
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes optional

Instructions

 

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the kielbasa sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth to the skillet.
• Cover and cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
• Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
• Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t boil the cream to prevent separation. To customize, add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Serve over rice, pasta, or quinoa for a more substantial meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed.