Easy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner: A One-Pan Wonder!

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Kielbasa Skillet Dinner! This one-pan meal is packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution for busy families.

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to use your favorite vegetables and seasonings. We’ll provide a base recipe, but feel free to experiment and make it your own!

## Why You’ll Love This Kielbasa Skillet Dinner

* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
* **One-Pan Meal:** Minimal cleanup, making your life easier.
* **Delicious and Flavorful:** Kielbasa sausage combined with savory vegetables creates a satisfying and tasty meal.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses inexpensive ingredients, making it a great option for budget-conscious families.
* **Family-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need for this Kielbasa Skillet Dinner. Don’t be afraid to substitute or add ingredients based on your preferences!

* **1 pound Kielbasa Sausage:** Smoked kielbasa works best, but you can use any type of kielbasa you prefer.
* **1 tablespoon Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables and kielbasa.
* **1 medium Onion:** Chopped, adds flavor and aroma.
* **2 cloves Garlic:** Minced, provides a pungent and savory flavor.
* **1 Bell Pepper:** Chopped (any color), adds sweetness and texture.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes:** Drained, provides acidity and flavor.
* **1 cup Potatoes:** Diced (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well).
* **1 cup Cabbage:** Shredded, adds a nice crunch and nutritional value.
* **1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning:** A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor.
* **1/2 teaspoon Paprika:** Adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste, for seasoning.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Fresh parsley, shredded cheese, sour cream.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Skillet or Dutch Oven:** A large skillet is essential for cooking all the ingredients at once. A Dutch oven can also be used if you prefer.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping the vegetables and kielbasa.
* **Knife:** For chopping.
* **Spatula or Spoon:** For stirring and flipping the ingredients.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making this delicious Kielbasa Skillet Dinner:

**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**

* Dice the kielbasa sausage into bite-sized pieces.
* Chop the onion and bell pepper.
* Mince the garlic.
* Dice the potatoes into small, even-sized pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly.
* Shred the cabbage.
* Drain the diced tomatoes.

**Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa and Vegetables**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the kielbasa sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until lightly browned.
* Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
* Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients**

* Add the diced potatoes, drained diced tomatoes, and shredded cabbage to the skillet.
* Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
* Return the kielbasa sausage to the skillet.
* Stir everything together to combine.

**Step 4: Cook the Skillet Dinner**

* Cover the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* If the skillet becomes too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth.
* Once the potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Serve the Kielbasa Skillet Dinner hot.
* Garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or sour cream, if desired.

## Tips and Variations

* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, green beans, or corn.
* **Use Different Sausage:** If you don’t have kielbasa, you can use other types of sausage such as Italian sausage, Andouille sausage, or chorizo.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Add Beans:** Add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, or cannellini beans, for added protein and fiber.
* **Use Different Potatoes:** Sweet potatoes or russet potatoes can be used instead of Yukon gold or red potatoes.
* **Make it a Creamy Skillet:** Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier texture.
* **Add a Sauce:** Consider adding a tomato sauce, marinara sauce, or even a creamy mushroom sauce.
* **Add Greens:** Stir in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Ensure that the kielbasa sausage and any other ingredients you use are gluten-free.
* **Make it Ahead:** This skillet dinner can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

## Serving Suggestions

This Kielbasa Skillet Dinner is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of:

* Crusty bread
* Side salad
* Cornbread
* Coleslaw

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on a recipe with 6 servings)

* Calories: Approximately 350-450
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 25-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g

*Please note that nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## How to Store Leftovers

Allow the Kielbasa Skillet Dinner to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through or heat in a skillet over medium heat.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Add them to the skillet during the same time you would add fresh vegetables. You may need to cook them a little longer to ensure they are tender.

**Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, Andouille sausage, or chorizo.

**Q: Can I add beans to this skillet dinner?**
A: Yes, adding beans is a great way to add protein and fiber. Drain and rinse a can of your favorite beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, or cannellini beans, and add them to the skillet along with the other vegetables.

**Q: How can I make this skillet dinner spicier?**
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet while cooking.

**Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
A: Yes, this skillet dinner can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

**Q: What if my potatoes are not cooking through?**
A: Ensure that the potatoes are diced into small, even-sized pieces. If they are still not cooking through, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to the skillet and continue cooking until tender.

**Q: Can I add cheese to this dish?**
A: Absolutely! Shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese would be delicious additions. Add the cheese during the last few minutes of cooking so that it melts nicely.

## Conclusion

This Easy Kielbasa Skillet Dinner is a versatile and delicious meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, customizable, and budget-friendly. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this one-pan wonder will become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will love! Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own unique version of this classic skillet dinner.

Enjoy!