Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and delicious one-pan dinner, this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe is your go-to option! It’s packed with flavors, easy to make, and filled with wholesome ingredients that your entire family will love. Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it even more delicious!

this Recipe

What is Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet?

Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a hearty, comforting dish made with smoky kielbasa sausage, tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese—all cooked in a single skillet. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that creates a filling and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. It's ideal for busy weeknights when you want a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet. Be sure to check your pantry and fridge for these essentials:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika for added flavor

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for a richer cheesy taste)
• ½ cup frozen peas or corn (for extra veggies)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of the Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is its flexibility. You can easily customize this dish with your preferred ingredients or based on what you have on hand. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Protein Options: If you don’t have kielbasa, you can substitute it with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even chicken breast.
• Rice Choices: Use any type of rice you prefer, such as jasmine, basmati, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Vegetable Alternatives: Feel free to swap out broccoli for other green veggies like spinach, green beans, or zucchini.
• Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy kielbasa to give the dish an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the details of how to prepare this mouthwatering skillet recipe. Follow these steps to ensure you get the perfect Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch rounds.
• Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
• Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
• Measure out the rice, chicken broth, and cheese.

Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa and Onion

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the sliced kielbasa and diced onion to the skillet.
• Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Rice

• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and mix well, allowing the rice to toast slightly for added flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth

• Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

• Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring them into the rice mixture.
• Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet.
• Cover and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted to a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Final Touches

• Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
• Stir gently to combine all ingredients, making sure the cheese is well incorporated.

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

Cooking this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. If you're a fan of one-pan meals, this skillet will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. Just remember to use a large enough skillet to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.

1. Preheat the skillet and brown the sausage for maximum flavor.
2. Simmer the rice with broth for a flavorful base.
3. Add the vegetables toward the end to keep them fresh and crisp.
4. Top with cheese and allow it to melt to create a creamy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not Browning the Kielbasa: Browning the sausage adds a lot of flavor, so don’t skip this step.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Add the broccoli at the right time to keep it tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Using the Wrong Cheese: Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some tips to make it even more appealing:

How to Serve Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet

• Serve hot in the skillet itself for a rustic presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet

• Use a cast-iron skillet to serve directly on the table for a classic look.
• Sprinkle some extra cheese on top just before serving to give it a gooey appearance.
• Add a dash of paprika or red pepper flakes for a touch of color and spice.

Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe Tips

• To Make It Creamier: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
• For Extra Protein: Add a fried egg on top of each serving for a breakfast-style twist.
• Leftover Love: This dish makes great leftovers! Simply reheat in the skillet with a splash of broth or water to bring it back to life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the skillet.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat and add a little more cheese to refresh it.

Q: What type of rice works best for this recipe? A: Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works best, but you can also use brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a versatile, family-friendly recipe that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to impress your guests, this skillet has you covered. Try it out today and enjoy a hearty, cheesy meal that's sure to become a favorite in your home!

Print