Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, but the thought of spending hours in the kitchen makes you want to order takeout. Fear not, my friend! The Easy Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is here to rescue your dinner routine with a ridiculously simple, incredibly delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. We’re about to create pure culinary bliss, right in your favorite skillet!
Gathering Your Heavenly Ingredients
Here is everything you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
For the Star of the Show:
- Kielbasa Sausage: 1 pound, sliced (I prefer Polish kielbasa for that smoky flavor, but use your favorite!)
- Broccoli Florets: 4 cups, fresh or frozen (if using frozen, thaw slightly)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
For the Creamy Dreaminess:
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (freshly grated is always best!)
For Flavor and Flair:
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little kick!)
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s transform these ingredients into a flavor explosion!
Preparing the Kielbasa and Veggies:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing that rich, savory flavor! Don’t rush it!
- Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. We want it translucent, not burnt!
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Ah, the smell of garlic… pure magic!
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, you may need to cook it a little longer.
Creating the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring! A whisk can help if you’re having trouble getting it smooth.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to make it perfect for YOUR palate!
Bringing It All Together:
- Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet.
- Stir everything together until the kielbasa and broccoli are coated in the creamy sauce.
- Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! Seriously, dig in!
Variations to Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! Feel free to experiment and customize it to your liking.
Spice It Up:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Use spicy Italian sausage instead of kielbasa.
Add More Veggies:
- Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be delicious additions.
- Consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Make It Healthier:
- Use light cream cheese and skim milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add more broccoli or other vegetables to increase the fiber content.
Pro Tips for Skillet Success
Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Easy Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the kielbasa. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to thin it out.
- For a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of chicken broth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
This skillet is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal:
- Serve over cooked rice, pasta, or quinoa.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Add a simple side salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Why This Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet Is Simply the Best
Beyond its sheer deliciousness and ease, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love! The creamy sauce perfectly complements the smoky kielbasa and tender-crisp broccoli, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. It is also so much easier than making Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa, when you need something quick.
Discover Other Delicious Sausage Recipes
If you’re a fan of sausage, you’re in luck! There are so many other amazing recipes to explore. For something comforting and hearty, try the CREAMY SAUSAGE TORTELLINI SOUP or the SAUSAGE TORTELLINI SOUP. If you’re looking for a simple and flavorful dinner, the SAUSAGE CABBAGE is a winner. Or, if you want a healthy and delicious option, consider GARLIC CHICKEN BROCCOLI BOWLS which can easily be adapted to use kielbasa instead of chicken. You could also adapt the recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo to use sausage!
Final Thoughts: Go Forth and Create!
So there you have it! Your ultimate guide to making the Easy Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen. It’s truly a magical dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Now, go forth and create some delicious memories!
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe, and if so, how should I prepare it?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. The recipe recommends thawing it slightly before adding it to the skillet.
What are some variations I can make to this recipe to customize it to my preferences?
The recipe suggests several variations, including adding cayenne pepper or spicy Italian sausage for more spice, incorporating bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added vegetables, or using light cream cheese and skim milk to make it healthier.
How should I store and reheat leftovers of the Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce is too thick.
What kind of kielbasa sausage is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using Polish kielbasa for its smoky flavor, but encourages using your favorite type of kielbasa sausage.
Creamy Kielbasa and Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, cook until heated through.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. A whisk can help with this.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet.
- Stir everything together until the kielbasa and broccoli are coated in the creamy sauce.
- Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately.