Cheesy Kielbasa Rice And Broccoli Skillet

If there’s a dinner recipe that checks all the right boxes—comforting, flavorful, quick to make, and barely any cleanup—this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is it. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, with its gooey cheddar cheese, smoky kielbasa, tender broccoli, and perfectly seasoned rice—all cooked together in one glorious pan.

This one-skillet wonder is hearty, balanced, and downright irresistible. It’s a weeknight dinner hero you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers flavor and convenience in every bite.

Craving cozy comfort? Subscribe below to get this recipe and more like it delivered straight to your inbox.

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the Kielbasa:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Cook Aromatics:
   In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Toast the Rice:
   Stir in the uncooked rice and paprika. Let it toast in the skillet for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning—this adds a subtle nuttiness to the final dish.
4. Simmer the Rice:
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. The rice will soak up all the broth and begin to soften.
5. Add the Broccoli:
   After 15 minutes, stir in the broccoli florets. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender, and the rice is fully cooked.
6. Bring it All Together:
   Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and coats the rice and sausage in a creamy layer of cheesy goodness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a bit more shredded cheddar on top just before serving.

Notes

• Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but if you have time, shredding your own cheese creates a meltier texture.
• Don’t skip toasting the rice—it’s a small step that enhances the depth of flavor.
• Broccoli can be added frozen or fresh. If using frozen, just increase the cook time by 2-3 minutes.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a splash of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.

Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet / One-Pot
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
• Diet: Nut-Free, Kid-Friendly
• Keywords: kielbasa rice skillet, cheesy one-pan dinner, broccoli rice and sausage

Equipment

• Large deep skillet with lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Helpful Tips

This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is simple by design, but a few extra touches can take it from good to absolutely unforgettable. These helpful tips will guide you through making the most out of every cheesy, hearty bite:

1. Brown the kielbasa well

Don’t rush this step! Browning the sausage adds a deep, savory flavor to the entire dish. Let the slices get golden and caramelized before removing them from the skillet. That extra crispiness is worth it—and it leaves behind delicious bits in the pan that infuse the rest of the ingredients.

2. Use freshly shredded cheese

Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, but for that velvety, melty texture we all love, freshly shredded cheddar is the way to go. It melts more evenly and doesn’t have the anti-caking agents that can cause clumping.

3. Toast the rice before adding liquid

That quick minute or two of toasting the rice in the pan with the onion and garlic? Don’t skip it. It adds a subtle nuttiness and helps the rice cook up fluffy rather than mushy.

4. Don’t overcook the broccoli

Add it during the last 5-7 minutes so it stays vibrant green and tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli turns dull and mushy, and we want it to bring a fresh, bright contrast to the richness of the cheese and sausage.

5. Let it rest before serving

Once everything’s mixed and the cheese is melted, let the dish sit off the heat for 3-5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and thickens the cheese sauce naturally—plus it’s less likely to burn your tongue on that first bite!

6. Taste and season last

Since kielbasa and broth both bring their own saltiness, wait until the end to season with salt and pepper. A little black pepper goes a long way in rounding out the cheesy richness.

7. Make it your own

This skillet is super flexible—add extra veggies, swap the cheese, or play with seasonings. Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, it’s the perfect canvas for experimenting.

Conservation and Storage

One of the beautiful things about this Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet—aside from how quickly it disappears from the table—is how well it keeps. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro.

Refrigeration

After the dish has cooled to room temperature (but don’t leave it sitting out for more than 2 hours), transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

This dish holds up really well in the fridge—the rice stays tender, the cheese stays creamy, and the flavor might even deepen a bit overnight. It’s perfect for lunchboxes, busy weeknights, or a no-fuss dinner the next day.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: Scoop your desired portion into a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 60-second intervals, stirring between each round, until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it looks dry—it’ll bring the creaminess right back.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little bit of broth, water, or even milk. Stir occasionally until warmed through and creamy.

Avoid reheating over high heat, as it can cause the cheese to separate and the rice to dry out.

Freezing

While you can freeze it, I’ll be honest—this dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. The texture of the rice and broccoli may change after freezing and thawing, and the cheese can become grainy.

But if you do want to freeze it:

• Cool the dish completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the microwave or stovetop reheating instructions above.

Meal Prep Bonus Tip

Divide leftovers into individual meal-prep containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners later in the week. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for that just-cooked vibe.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the reasons I love this skillet dinner so much is because it plays so nicely with changes. Whether you’re working around dietary needs, using what you already have on hand, or just feel like mixing it up, this recipe is endlessly adaptable.

Protein Options

• Smoked Turkey Sausage:
  Want something leaner but still full of that smoky flavor? Smoked turkey sausage is a perfect swap for kielbasa and lowers the overall fat content.
• Chicken Sausage:
  Mild or spicy, depending on your mood! It brings a different flavor profile but still fits beautifully into the creamy, cheesy base.
• Vegetarian Sausage:
  Going meatless? Use your favorite plant-based sausage. Just be sure to brown it well to get that deep flavor and texture.
• Leftover Rotisserie Chicken:
  Shred it and stir it in at the end with the cheese for a cozy shortcut dinner. It won’t have the smokiness of kielbasa, but it’s still delicious and hearty.

Grain Alternatives

• Brown Rice:
  A wholesome twist that adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just note—it takes longer to cook (about 35-40 minutes simmer time), and you might need an extra splash of broth.
• Quinoa:
  Cooks faster than brown rice and brings a light, nutty flavor. Use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to broth and reduce cook time to about 15 minutes.
• Cauliflower Rice (for Low-Carb):
  Stir in already-cooked cauliflower rice at the end instead of using uncooked white rice. Reduce the broth to about ½ cup and cook just until heated through. It won’t be quite the same, but it’s a great lighter option.

Cheese Variations

• Mozzarella:
  For stretchiness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Combine with cheddar for the best of both worlds.
• Pepper Jack:
  Want a kick of heat? Pepper jack adds a subtle spice and still melts beautifully.
• Colby or Monterey Jack:
  Milder in flavor but ultra-creamy. Great if you’re cooking for kids or prefer a softer cheese taste.

Vegetable Add-ins

This dish is a great excuse to use up whatever veggies are lingering in your fridge drawer.

• Bell Peppers:
  Dice and sauté with the onions for color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness.
• Mushrooms:
  Slice and cook with the sausage to deepen that savory umami flavor.
• Zucchini or Yellow Squash:
  Quick-cooking and tender, add them in the last 5 minutes like you do with the broccoli.
• Spinach or Kale:
  Stir in a handful at the end and let the heat wilt it down—easy, nutritious, and adds a pop of green.

Flavor Boosters

• Red Pepper Flakes:
  For just a little kick without overpowering the dish.
• Dijon Mustard:
  A spoonful added with the broth gives a subtle tang that cuts through the richness in the best way.
• Smoked Paprika:
  Swap regular paprika for smoked for even more depth and a touch of barbecue-style flavor.
• Italian Seasoning or Dried Thyme:
  A pinch added with the rice can bring a whole new layer of warmth and complexity.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the mixture if needed.

This recipe is not recommended for freezing as the cheese and rice texture may change after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just note that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid. Simmer for about 30-35 minutes instead of 15.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Add frozen broccoli straight into the skillet in the last 7-8 minutes of cooking. No need to thaw first.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but mild cheddar, Colby jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend work well too.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare everything and refrigerate. Reheat gently, stirring in a bit of broth or milk to bring back that creamy texture.

Is this recipe spicy?
Nope! It’s kid-friendly and mild. But you can easily turn up the heat with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Kielbasa Rice and Broccoli Skillet is everything a cozy weeknight dinner should be—warm, filling, and made with everyday ingredients. It brings together bold smoky sausage, fluffy seasoned rice, melty cheddar cheese, and vibrant broccoli in one easy dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

There’s just something magical about meals that come together in a single pan—and this one absolutely delivers. I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! Whether you’re craving comfort food or just need something fast and foolproof, this skillet meal is your new go-to.

Looking for more warm, cheesy one-pan wonders? Try my One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Bake or the crowd-favorite Creamy Sausage and Spinach Orzo—they’re every bit as simple and satisfying.

Print