Are you ready to whip up a delicious meal that your family will absolutely adore? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet, a dish that combines the savory flavors of kielbasa with the freshness of broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. And the best part? It takes just 30 minutes to make! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners that don’t skimp on flavor. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with kielbasa and fresh broccoli.
- One-pan meal means less cleanup!
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or pasta types.
- A family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients
To make this mouth-watering dish, you’ll need the following 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
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet:
- 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.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to substitute the penne pasta with your favorite type of pasta for a fun twist!
- If you want to add more veggies, consider including bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
- Make sure to stir the sauce continuously while it thickens to avoid any lumps.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish; it adds a lovely touch of color and flavor!
How to Serve
This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is best served hot, straight from the skillet. I love to pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce. It’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinner ideas that will leave everyone satisfied. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top for those cheese lovers in your family!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the pasta and broccoli in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just follow the steps for the sauce and combine everything. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
So there you have it! A delightful, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake or my Moist Chocolate Cake for dessert ideas that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; add broccoli in last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook kielbasa until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add onion and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Whisk milk into a bowl; pour into skillet and simmer until thickened, 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually add cheese, stirring until melted. Mix in cooked pasta and broccoli. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.