Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-skillet meal that brings together savory meat, tender rice, fresh vegetables, and melty cheese. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite comfort food recipe that’s become a staple in my household – a hearty Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet. This dish combines the smoky flavors of kielbasa with fluffy rice, crisp-tender broccoli, and a generous helping of cheese, all cooked in a single pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

As someone who’s been cooking family meals for over a decade, I can confidently say this recipe hits all the right notes. The combination of protein, carbs, and vegetables makes it a complete meal, while the one-skillet approach means less cleanup – something I always appreciate after a busy day. The smoky kielbasa infuses the rice with flavor as it cooks, and the broccoli adds both nutrition and a pleasant textural contrast.

Ingredients

For 6 generous servings:

• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (I prefer sharp cheddar)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)

Essential Equipment

• 12-inch cast iron skillet or large deep skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Lid that fits your skillet

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Work (10 minutes)

• Slice the kielbasa into even rounds
• Dice the onion
• Mince the garlic
• Cut broccoli into uniform florets
• Measure out remaining ingredients

1. Start Cooking (30-35 minutes)

• Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat
• Add sliced kielbasa and brown for 3-4 minutes per side until golden
• Remove kielbasa to a plate, leaving the flavorful oils behind
• Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes)
• Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
• Stir in rice, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper
• Toast rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently
• Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes

1. Adding Vegetables and Finishing (10-15 minutes)

• Place broccoli florets on top of the partially cooked rice
• Return kielbasa to the skillet, nestling pieces among the broccoli
• Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp
• Remove lid and stir in heavy cream (if using)
• Sprinkle cheese over the top
• Cover for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts perfectly

Pro Tips From My Kitchen

After making this dish countless times, I’ve discovered several tricks that take it from good to exceptional:

• Pat the kielbasa dry before browning for better caramelization
• Don’t skip the rice toasting step – it adds incredible depth of flavor
• Use room temperature broth for more even cooking
• Cut broccoli florets to similar sizes for consistent cooking
• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld

Nutritional Information

Storage and Reheating

This dish keeps beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating:
• Microwave: 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through
• Stovetop: Heat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth
• Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese when reheating for best results

Variations and Substitutions

I love how versatile this recipe is. Here are some successful variations I’ve tried:

• Swap kielbasa for smoked turkey sausage for a lighter option
• Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb version
• Try different cheese combinations (Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss work well)
• Add different vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or carrots
• Use brown rice (note: cooking time will increase by about 15-20 minutes)

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color and flavor
• Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread
• Add a fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing
• Include pickled vegetables for tang and contrast
• Top with a dollop of sour cream

Common Questions & Answers

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but add it in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. There’s no need to thaw it first.

Q: What’s the best type of rice to use?
A: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. Short-grain rice can become too sticky, and instant rice won’t absorb the flavors properly.

Q: How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?
A: Keep the heat low once you’ve added the rice and liquid, and make sure you’re using a heavy-bottomed pan. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet works wonderfully.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! It reheats beautifully. Just store it properly in the refrigerator and add a splash of broth when reheating to maintain moisture.

Q: Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Skip the heavy cream and use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be delicious.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you run into any issues while making this dish, here are some common solutions:

• Rice not cooking evenly: Make sure your pan is level on the burner
• Broccoli too soft: Add it later in the cooking process
• Dish too dry: Add an extra ¼ cup of broth during cooking
• Rice too wet: Remove lid and cook for additional 2-3 minutes
• Cheese not melting smoothly: Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded

Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process and learning from each experience. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to match your family’s preferences. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced home chefs.

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