If you’re looking for a simple, one-pan meal that's bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This cheesy kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet recipe combines savory sausage, tender broccoli, and perfectly seasoned rice all wrapped in creamy, melted cheese. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights, and it delivers both nutrition and comfort in every bite. Keep reading to discover how to whip up this hearty dish and learn all the tips and tricks for making it even better.

What is Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet?
Cheesy kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet is a delicious, one-pan meal that combines flavorful slices of kielbasa sausage, fluffy rice, tender broccoli, and gooey cheese. The ingredients cook together, absorbing all the rich flavors, making it a satisfying and filling dish. It’s perfect for those nights when you don’t want to fuss over multiple pots and pans, yet still want a home-cooked, hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced – The star of the dish, kielbasa is a Polish sausage that’s smoky and slightly spicy, adding a lot of flavor to the skillet.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice – This absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the kielbasa and broth while becoming tender and fluffy.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Broccoli adds color, texture, and a boost of nutrition, pairing well with the richness of the cheese and sausage.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the dish, creating that irresistible cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups chicken broth – The broth helps cook the rice and adds savory flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced – Onions provide a sweet, savory foundation for the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds a depth of flavor and a fragrant aroma.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some substitution ideas:
- Rice options: You can swap the white rice for brown rice or even quinoa if you want a healthier grain option. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly add more liquid.
- Cheese choices: While cheddar works great, you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack if you want to add some heat.
- Vegetable swaps: If broccoli isn’t your favorite, you can use other vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or bell peppers. Just ensure you cut them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Protein alternatives: If you’re not a fan of kielbasa, you can replace it with other types of sausage, such as andouille, chorizo, or even a chicken sausage for a leaner option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prep the ingredients: Before you start cooking, slice the kielbasa into rounds, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into florets. Make sure everything is ready to go, as the dish comes together quickly.
- Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning. If needed, add a little more olive oil to the pan.
- Add the rice: Once the onions are softened, stir in the rice. Allow the rice to toast for about 1 minute, which helps enhance its flavor.
- Pour in the broth: Carefully pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is almost fully cooked.
- Add the broccoli: When the rice is nearly done, stir in the broccoli florets. Replace the lid and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the rice has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with cheese and sausage: Once the broccoli is tender, add the cooked kielbasa back into the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Once melted, give everything a final stir.
- Serve and enjoy: Your cheesy kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet is ready to be served! Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
How to Cook Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep the ingredients: Have all your components sliced, diced, and ready to go for seamless cooking.
- Cook the kielbasa: Sauté until browned for flavor and texture.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: These aromatics provide the base for the dish.
- Add the rice and broth: Toast the rice briefly, then let it simmer with the broth.
- Cook the broccoli: Add broccoli after the rice is partially cooked to ensure it stays tender-crisp.
- Top with cheese and serve: Stir in the kielbasa, melt the cheese, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the kielbasa: Skipping this step will result in less flavor. Browning the sausage adds a nice caramelization and brings out the savory depth of the kielbasa.
- Overcooking the broccoli: Adding the broccoli too early can cause it to become mushy. To keep it tender but firm, add it during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Undercooking the rice: Make sure you give the rice enough time to absorb all the liquid. If it’s still crunchy, cover the skillet and let it cook a few minutes longer.
- Not using enough cheese: This is a cheesy dish, so don’t skimp on the cheese! If you love extra cheesiness, feel free to add more to your liking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To elevate this dish, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation, or portion it out into individual bowls for easy serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
Serve this dish warm, right out of the skillet. It pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if you enjoy a little heat with your meal.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
For a more attractive presentation, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese on top. You can also serve the skillet on a wooden cutting board for a more rustic, homestyle look. Arrange the sliced kielbasa evenly across the top to showcase the hearty sausage pieces.
Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe Tips
- Make it spicy: If you love spicy food, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- Meal prep: This recipe is excellent for meal prep. It reheats well, making it a great option for lunches throughout the week.
- One-pan cleanup: Make sure to use a large, deep skillet to cook everything in one pan for easy cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it directly to the skillet without thawing. It may need an extra minute or two to cook fully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What other cheeses can I use?
You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well. For a spicier kick, try pepper jack cheese.
Can I use another type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with any other sausage, such as smoked sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Cheesy kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet is a simple, hearty, and delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy the entire family. With the savory flavors of kielbasa, the freshness of broccoli, and the creamy melt of cheddar cheese, this one-pan meal is perfect for any night of the week. Plus, with easy substitutions and variations, you can customize the recipe to fit your personal preferences. Try this recipe tonight, and enjoy a comforting, wholesome meal with minimal cleanup!
PrintCheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet Recipe
This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a hearty, one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender kielbasa, fluffy rice, and broccoli florets, all coated in melted cheese, it’s a comforting and flavorful dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for feeding the family or meal prepping for the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup white or brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned.
- Add garlic powder and broccoli florets. Cook for 3-4 minutes until broccoli softens slightly.
- Stir in the rice, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Use smoked or turkey kielbasa for different flavor variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
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