Print

Creamy Kielbasa Skillet

A creamy and comforting dish featuring kielbasa sausage, penne pasta, fresh broccoli, and a luscious cheddar cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz kielbasa, sliced
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside, saving a bit of the pasta water in case you need it later.
  2. Sauté the kielbasa: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the sliced kielbasa. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, until each piece becomes perfectly browned and caramelized, infusing the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
  3. Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets into the skillet with the kielbasa. Allow them to cook together for 3-4 minutes, letting the broccoli turn tender yet crisp.
  4. Add the cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer. The creaminess begins to envelop the sausage and broccoli, creating a stunning base for your dish.
  5. Melt the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, patiently mixing until it melts and forms a luscious, smooth sauce.
  6. Combine with pasta: Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring every piece gets coated in the velvety cheese sauce. If it seems too thick, splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Season it perfectly: Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper according to your liking.
  8. Serve and garnish: Plate the creamy kielbasa skillet hot, finishing it off with a light sprinkle of parsley for that pop of color.

Notes

For a smoky flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to spice it up. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with various vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy kielbasa, skillet recipe, comfort food, pasta dish, quick dinner