kielbasa and rice transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant weeknight feast. In one sizzle of smoked turkey sausage, onions, and bell peppers, you’ll sense a fiesta of aroma that dances through your kitchen. Fluffy jasmine rice simmers in savory chicken broth, brightened with a splash of apple cider vinegar and a hint of honey, creating the perfect balance of tang and sweetness. With each forkful, you’ll uncover tender sausage slices nestled among colorful veggies and fragrant herbs. It’s the kind of cozy, flavorful meal that feels homemade, yet comes together in under thirty minutes—ideal for those busy nights when you crave comfort without fuss.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This kielbasa and rice
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and filling, satisfying everyone at the table.
- Versatile ingredients, customize with your favorite veggies.
- One-pot meal, easy cleanup for more family time.
kielbasa and rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove kielbasa and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in rice, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking 1 minute to toast the rice.
- Step 6: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Step 7: Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 8: Stir in kielbasa, cover, and cook 5 more minutes until rice is tender.
- Step 9: Fluff with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for a delicious kielbasa and rice meal!
- 1 lb smoked kielbasa – sliced
- 1 cup long-grain rice – uncooked
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – for cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
- 1 medium onion – diced
- 1 red bell pepper – diced
- 2 cloves garlic – minced
- 1 tsp paprika – for flavor
- ½ tsp salt – to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper – to taste
- fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
How to Make kielbasa and rice
This easy kielbasa and rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. No extra baking or resting time is needed, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner.
Step 1: Heat Olive Oil
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook Kielbasa
Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Set Kielbasa Aside
Remove kielbasa and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes.
Step 5: Toast Rice
Stir in rice, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking 1 minute to toast the rice.
Step 6: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Step 7: Simmer
Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 8: Combine Kielbasa
Stir in kielbasa, cover, and cook 5 more minutes until rice is tender.
Step 9: Serve
Fluff with a fork, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Polish |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot with fresh parsley garnish! |
Pro Tips for Making kielbasa and rice
- Choose turkey or chicken kielbasa for a lighter option.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Add bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and color.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.
How to Serve this kielbasa and rice
- Top with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for added crunch.
- Pair with a light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
- For a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare and store kielbasa and rice for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Cool the dish completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What goes well with kielbasa?
Kielbasa pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can serve it with sautéed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding it to a stir-fry or serving it alongside roasted potatoes. The smoky flavor of kielbasa complements many dishes, making it a versatile choice for your dinner table.
2. Do sausages and rice go together?
Absolutely! Sausages and rice make a fantastic combination. The rice absorbs the flavors of the sausage, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. You can cook them together in one pot for an easy weeknight dinner, or serve the sausage on top of a bed of rice for a more elegant presentation. It’s a comforting dish that is sure to please everyone!
3. What do Polish people eat kielbasa with?
In Poland, kielbasa is often enjoyed with sauerkraut, potatoes, or bread. It can also be served with mustard or horseradish for an extra kick. Many Polish dishes incorporate kielbasa, such as bigos (hunter’s stew) or as a topping for pierogi. The combinations are endless, and each brings out the rich flavors of the sausage.
4. Is sausage and rice good for you?
Sausage and rice can be part of a balanced diet, especially if you choose leaner sausage options and incorporate plenty of vegetables. Using brown rice instead of white can add more fiber and nutrients to the meal. Just be mindful of portion sizes and the ingredients in your sausage to ensure a healthier dish. With the right choices, it can be a nutritious and satisfying meal!
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re as excited to try this kielbasa and rice recipe as we are! It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, perfect for those busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also a joy to share. Enjoy every bite!