Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. It’s quick, hearty, and brings a delightful mix of sausage, pasta, and fresh broccoli under a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritious punch with the added vegetables, making it a great choice for families.

How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

Ingredients:

8 ounces of penne pasta
2 cups (182 g) of fresh broccoli florets, quartered
13.9-ounce ring of kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-sized slices
1 1/2 cups (367.5 g) of whole milk
1 1/2 cups (169.5 g) of shredded mild cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1 small diced yellow onion (about 1/2 cup)
1 teaspoon of minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Begin by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of the cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli mixture and set it aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s lightly browned, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the kielbasa is seared, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the whole milk until fully combined. Pour the milk mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, straight from the skillet.

How to Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

Serve Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet hot, right from the pan. You can garnish it with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheese for a nice touch. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

To store leftovers, let the skillet cool to room temperature, then transfer the dish to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

Make sure not to overcook the broccoli. It should be bright green and still slightly crisp.
You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more milk or letting it cook a little longer.
For extra flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Variation

You can swap out the kielbasa for grilled chicken or turkey sausage if you prefer a leaner protein. Additionally, feel free to use different types of pasta or cheese based on your preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet