Introduction

This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a complete one-pan meal that comes together quickly for busy weeknights. Smoked sausage, tender rice, and broccoli are cooked in a single skillet and smothered in melted cheese for ultimate comfort. If you enjoy easy sausage dishes, try the Easy Sausage Potato Green Bean Skillet Ready in 30 Minutes for another simple skillet option.

Ingredients

This savory skillet dinner combines smoky kielbasa with tender rice, fresh broccoli, and gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal that comes together in one pan.

• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 to 2 packages kielbasa, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is about 20% faster than similar one-pan recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather 1 pound of kielbasa sausage, 1 cup of long-grain white rice, 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets, 1½ cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch rounds and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Step 2 — Brown the Kielbasa

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kielbasa slices and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and fragrant. The kielbasa will release some fat, which helps flavor the dish.

Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics and Rice

Add 1 diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the rice and stir to coat, toasting for 1 minute to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 4 — Add Liquid and Broccoli

Pour in the chicken broth and ½ cup of water, then add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5 — Check for Doneness

Uncover the skillet and test the rice for tenderness—it should be soft with no hard centers. The broccoli should be bright green and fork-tender. If the rice needs more time, add a splash of broth and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 6 — Add Cheese and Season

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of butter or a splash of milk.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let the Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet rest for 2–3 minutes off the heat. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	26g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey kielbasa — Leaner protein option that still delivers smoky flavor with less fat.
• Cauliflower rice — Lower-carb alternative that absorbs the cheesy sauce beautifully.
• Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese — Perfect for creating a vegan version of this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet.
• Brown rice or quinoa — Whole grain alternatives that add fiber and nutrients.
• Chicken or turkey sausage — Lighter protein options that pair well with the broccoli and cheese.
• Low-sodium kielbasa — Reduces salt content while maintaining the classic flavor profile.
• Gluten-free pasta — Excellent substitute for those needing to avoid gluten in this skillet meal.
• Zucchini or bell peppers — Additional vegetable options to boost nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet with a side of crusty garlic bread for a complete, comforting meal.
• Pair with a light, crisp side salad to balance the richness of the cheesy kielbasa and rice dish.
• Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual family gatherings where a hearty, one-pan meal is ideal.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
• Serve directly from the skillet at the table for a rustic, family-style presentation that keeps the meal warm.
• Great for meal prep—portion into containers for easy, ready-to-eat lunches throughout the week.

This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that works well for various occasions and pairings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using instant rice, which turns mushy. Fix: Opt for long-grain white rice for better texture and absorption.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the skillet with raw broccoli. Fix: Partially steam broccoli first to ensure even cooking without sogginess.
• Mistake: Adding cheese too early, causing it to seize or burn. Fix: Stir in cheese off-heat at the very end for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Mistake: Not browning the kielbasa sufficiently. Fix: Sear slices in a hot skillet until edges crisp to develop deeper flavor.
• Mistake: Skipping the deglazing step after cooking kielbasa. Fix: Use broth or water to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the pan.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the cooking liquid for the rice. Fix: Season broth well before adding rice, as grains absorb much of the salt.
• Mistake: Cooking on too high heat once rice is added. Fix: Maintain a gentle simmer to cook rice evenly without scorching the bottom.
• Mistake: Stirring the Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet too frequently. Fix: Let rice cook undisturbed to allow proper steam absorption and prevent gumminess.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. Fix: Shred cheese from a block for superior melting and creaminess.
• Mistake: Not letting the dish rest before serving. Fix: Allow 5 minutes off-heat for rice to set and flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is reheated to a safe temperature.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a complete, comforting meal that comes together quickly in one pan. If you enjoyed this recipe, try Best Cowboy Stew Recipe – Hearty and Easy for another simple dinner. Please leave a rating or comment to share how it turned out!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet?

Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, andouille, or even chicken sausage. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding to the skillet to maintain the correct cooking time for this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet.

How can I make this recipe with brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice works well but requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Par-cook the brown rice separately before adding it to the skillet, or increase the broth and simmer until the rice is tender.

Can I prepare this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it in the skillet or oven, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.