If you’re craving a comforting, quick, and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet recipe will be your new go-to dinner. This dish is a perfect balance of savory kielbasa, tender broccoli, and cheesy rice, all cooked in one skillet for easy preparation and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, you can master this recipe and have it on the table in under 30 minutes. Keep reading for the full breakdown of ingredients, steps, and tips to make this delicious meal a success!

What is Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet?
Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that combines slices of smoky kielbasa sausage, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli florets with a generous helping of melty cheese. This family-friendly dish is quick to prepare, filling, and easy to customize with different ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. The magic of this recipe is how it blends different textures and flavors—savory sausage, crunchy broccoli, and creamy cheese—into one irresistible meal.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your ingredients. This recipe is designed to be simple and versatile, so you may already have most of these items in your kitchen. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups of chicken broth (or water for a lighter option)
- 2 cups of broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best aspects of the Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet recipe is how adaptable it is. If you're missing an ingredient or prefer to switch things up, here are some easy substitutions and variations:
- Rice Substitutes: You can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Note that brown rice may require a longer cooking time.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can try mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Broccoli Alternatives: Swap the broccoli for other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or peas. If using frozen vegetables, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Kielbasa Swaps: If you don’t have kielbasa on hand, smoked sausage, andouille, or even diced chicken can be used as a substitute.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, it's time to start cooking! Follow this step-by-step guide to make your Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet with ease.
- Sauté the Kielbasa: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and crispy around the edges. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice, which will add extra flavor to the dish.
- Add Broth and Cook Rice: Pour in 2 cups of 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 cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Broccoli: About 5 minutes before the rice is done, add the broccoli florets on top of the rice. Cover the skillet again and let the broccoli steam until tender. If using frozen broccoli, you may need an extra minute or two for the florets to heat through.
- Combine and Add Cheese: Once the rice and broccoli are cooked, return the kielbasa to the skillet and stir everything together. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes gooey and delicious.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices (like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes) to your liking. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results:
- Undercooking or Overcooking the Rice: Be sure to follow the cooking instructions closely, and don’t lift the lid too often while the rice is simmering. Lifting the lid allows steam to escape, which can result in undercooked rice.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: If your skillet is too small, the ingredients won’t cook evenly. Use a large enough pan so the sausage can brown properly and the rice has room to cook without getting mushy.
- Skipping Seasoning: The kielbasa provides a lot of flavor, but you still need to season the dish with salt, pepper, and any desired spices to balance out the flavors.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A meal that looks as good as it tastes makes the experience even better! Here are some tips on how to serve and present your Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet for maximum appeal:
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully and helps soak up any cheesy goodness left on the plate.
- Family-Style Presentation: Serve the skillet straight from the pan, placing it in the center of the table for a warm, inviting presentation. The melted cheese on top will look irresistible!
How to Serve Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but if you’re looking to pair it with sides, here are a few ideas:
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the cheesy skillet.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus can complement the flavors of the dish.
- Pickles or Sauerkraut: For a tangy contrast, serve with pickles or sauerkraut, which pair well with the smoky kielbasa.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet
- Serve in Individual Skillets: If you have small cast-iron skillets, serve each portion in its own mini skillet for a fun and rustic presentation.
- Cheese Pull Effect: When serving, make sure the cheese is still gooey for that perfect cheese-pull moment when spooning it onto plates.
- Family Style: If you're serving a larger group, consider placing the skillet on a wooden board and serving it directly from the pan for a rustic, communal vibe.
Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe Tips
- Pre-Cut Ingredients: For even faster preparation, pre-cut your broccoli, slice the kielbasa, and dice the onions the night before.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: If you prefer your broccoli with a bit of crunch, reduce the steaming time.
- Extra Creamy: For an extra creamy finish, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream before adding the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent the rice from drying out.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be aware that the texture of the broccoli may soften more after freezing.
Can I make this gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that the kielbasa and chicken broth you use are certified gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet recipe is a true weeknight hero—quick to make, full of flavor, and easy to customize to your liking. With just one pan, a few simple ingredients, and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy, comforting meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for two, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it out, and let the melty cheese and savory sausage win you over!
PrintCheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet Recipe
This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet recipe combines smoky kielbasa, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. It's an easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights, packed with wholesome ingredients and delicious flavors. The cheesy kielbasa skillet is sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Kielbasa sausage
- Broccoli florets
- White or brown rice
- Cheddar cheese
- Onion
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté sliced kielbasa until browned.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, then pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and let it cook until rice is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Use pre-cooked rice to cut down the cook time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1200mg
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