This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a one-pan delight that brings together smoky kielbasa, tender broccoli, and seasoned rice, all topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. Quick, hearty, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes make cleanup a breeze.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Balanced Meal: Combines protein, veggies, and grains in a single dish.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 cup white or brown rice, uncooked
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup green onions, optional (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Kielbasa
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- In the same skillet, add rice, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in steamed broccoli and the cooked kielbasa.
- Add sour cream and mix until evenly combined.
Step 4: Add Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Different Sausage: Use smoked sausage or andouille for a spicier flavor.
- Grain Alternatives: Replace rice with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for variety.
- Extra Veggies: Add red bell peppers, carrots, or peas for more color and nutrients.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use non-dairy cheese and sour cream substitutes.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, add pre-cooked rice during Step 3 and reduce the cooking time.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute kielbasa with plant-based sausage or additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
3. How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy andouille sausage.
4. Do I need to steam the broccoli first?
Steaming the broccoli ensures it’s tender, but you can add raw broccoli during Step 2 to cook along with the rice.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese work well.
6. How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Make sure to stir the rice occasionally and keep the heat low during simmering.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet or cook in two batches if needed.
8. What sides go well with this dish?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this meal perfectly.
9. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli before adding it to the skillet.
10. How do I ensure the dish is gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free chicken broth and confirm your kielbasa and seasonings are gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a versatile, hearty meal that’s as delicious as it is convenient. With its smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and tender veggies, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting one-pan meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Print
Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is the ultimate one-pan meal. With smoky kielbasa, tender broccoli, and perfectly seasoned rice topped with gooey melted cheddar, it’s a satisfying dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty and flavorful dish is both nutritious and delicious, offering protein, veggies, and comforting cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 cup white or brown rice, uncooked
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Kielbasa:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Rice:
In the same skillet, add rice, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. - Combine Ingredients:
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the steamed broccoli and browned kielbasa. Add sour cream and mix until everything is evenly combined. - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted. - Serve:
Garnish with green onions if desired and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting one-pan meal as is, or pair with a side salad for a complete dinner.
Notes
- Substitute smoked sausage or andouille for a different flavor.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option (adjust cooking time as needed).
- Add more veggies like red bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
- To make it dairy-free, use non-dairy cheese and sour cream alternatives.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *