How to Make Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet in 30 Minutes

Are you looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Well, look no further! My Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying on the table in just 30 minutes. This dish combines the savory flavors of kielbasa with fresh broccoli and creamy cheddar cheese, all tossed with pasta for a meal that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly tasty. Trust me, this is one of those easy pasta recipes that you’ll want to keep in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Deliciously creamy and packed with flavor, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile enough to adapt with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Great for meal prep or leftovers, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinner ideas.
• Perfect for families, as it serves up to six people easily!

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful 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 masterpiece:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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 dish turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to swap out the kielbasa for another protein, like chicken or turkey sausage, for a different flavor.
• If you want to add more veggies, consider including bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Make sure to stir the sauce continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.

How to Serve

This creamy dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. I love to garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. It’s a fantastic option for easy weekend dinner recipes or even fast weekday dinners when you’re short on time!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the pasta and kielbasa mixture in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just combine everything in the skillet and heat it up! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. This makes it a great option for easy meals for a family of 5 or even easy meals for a family of 6!

So, what are you waiting for? Try this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet tonight and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my High-Protein Kielbasa and Broccoli Skillet or my Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for more great easy dinner ideas!