Introduction: Can a Simple Skillet Dish Be Hearty, Flavorful, and Ready in Under 30 Minutes?
Craving a quick, savory meal with bold flavors? Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts combines smoky kielbasa sausage, caramelized red onion, and tender Brussels sprouts for a one-pan dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual meal. Ready to whip up a hearty skillet dish? Let’s dive into this simple recipe!
Overview: Why Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts Shines
Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts is loved for its robust flavors, minimal ingredients, and quick cooking time. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: 10 minutes prep, 18-20 minutes cooking, totaling approximately 28-30 minutes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy—requires slicing, sautéing, and seasoning, ideal for all skill levels.
- Why It’s Special: The smoky, savory kielbasa pairs perfectly with the earthy, slightly nutty Brussels sprouts and sweet red onion, creating a balanced, one-pan meal. This recipe serves 4, great for small families or leftovers.
Perfect with mashed potatoes, a side of creamy corn soup, or crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Essential Ingredients
Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts uses just five ingredients for a flavorful, hearty result. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:
- 1 tablespoon canola oil: For sautéing and browning.
- 1 (16-ounce) package kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch pieces: Provides smoky, savory protein.
- 1 red onion, chopped: Adds sweet, caramelized depth.
- 14 ounces baby Brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half: Contributes earthy, tender texture.
- Salt and ground black pepper: Seasons to taste.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Kielbasa: Smoky and savory, it’s the flavorful backbone of the dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Earthy and slightly crisp, they balance the richness of the sausage.
- Red Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- Canola Oil: Ensures even cooking and browning.
Substitutions and Variations
- Canola Oil: Swap with olive oil, avocado oil, or butter for richer flavor.
- Kielbasa Sausage: Replace with smoked sausage, andouille, chorizo, or plant-based sausage for vegetarian.
- Red Onion: Use yellow onion, shallots, or 1 teaspoon onion powder (add with seasoning).
- Baby Brussels Sprouts: Substitute with regular Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved), broccoli florets, or green beans.
- Salt and Pepper: Add garlic salt or seasoned salt for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; confirm kielbasa is gluten-free.
- Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Kielbasa Skillet: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño with the onion.
- Garlic Kielbasa Skillet: Include 2 minced garlic cloves when adding Brussels sprouts.
- Sweet and Savory Skillet: Mix in 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey during the last 2 minutes.
- Veggie-Packed Skillet: Add 1 cup diced bell peppers or carrots with the Brussels sprouts.
- Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet: Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the dish before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts is a quick, one-pan process that yields a hearty, flavorful dish. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 tablespoon canola oil, 1 (16-ounce) package kielbasa, 1 red onion, 14 ounces baby Brussels sprouts, salt, and pepper.
- Slice kielbasa into ½-inch pieces, chop red onion, trim and halve Brussels sprouts.
Tip: Cut Brussels sprouts uniformly for even cooking; use pre-trimmed sprouts to save time.
Step 2: Sauté Sausage and Onion
- Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 (16-ounce) package sliced kielbasa and 1 chopped red onion; cook and stir until onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
Tip: Stir occasionally to brown kielbasa evenly; onion should soften and lightly caramelize.
Step 3: Cook Brussels Sprouts
- Add 14 ounces halved baby Brussels sprouts to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking; cover briefly (2-3 minutes) if sprouts need more tenderness.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste; stir to combine.
- Serve hot, about 1 cup per serving, with optional sides or garnishes.
Tip: Taste before adding salt, as kielbasa can be salty; serve immediately for the best texture.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts
Making Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts is all about creating a hearty, flavorful dish. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Kielbasa: Smoky, savory protein with a crispy edge.
- Brussels Sprouts: Tender, earthy, and slightly caramelized.
- Red Onion: Sweet, soft, and aromatic.
- Seasoning: Simple salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in the skillet for a rustic look or transfer to a platter for elegance.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, or grated Parmesan for flair.
- Pair with holiday sides like roasted fall vegetable salad or instant pot pork chops for a festive spread.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts is great for leftovers and meal prep.
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers; Brussels sprouts may soften slightly upon thawing.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prep kielbasa, onion, and Brussels sprouts up to 1 day ahead; store separately in the refrigerator.
- Cook fully and refrigerate for up to 1 day; reheat gently to maintain texture.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring, or microwave in 1-minute bursts, covered, until hot. Add a splash of oil or broth to prevent drying.
- Tip: Add fresh Brussels sprouts when reheating to revive texture; store in single portions for easy meals.
Recipe Variations
Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Spicy Kielbasa Skillet: Add 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili flakes with the Brussels sprouts.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; confirm kielbasa is gluten-free.
- Creamy Kielbasa Skillet: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or sour cream during the last 2 minutes.
- Bacon-Kielbasa Skillet: Add 2 slices cooked, crumbled bacon with the sprouts.
- Mustard-Glazed Skillet: Drizzle with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal (varies with kielbasa and oil).
- Protein: Moderate, from kielbasa.
- Fat: Moderate to high, from kielbasa and oil.
- Carbs: Low, from vegetables.
- Note: For precise nutrition, calculate based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion: Savor the Smoky, Hearty Bliss!
Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts is the ultimate one-pan meal, blending smoky sausage with earthy Brussels sprouts and sweet onions for a quick, satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep, it’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. So, grab your skillet, sauté this hearty combo, and enjoy a flavorful meal. We’d love to hear how your dish turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts
Description
Craving a quick, savory meal with bold flavors? Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts combines smoky kielbasa sausage, caramelized red onion, and tender Brussels sprouts for a one-pan dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Kielbasa with Brussels Sprouts uses just five ingredients for a flavorful, hearty result. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:
- 1 tablespoon canola oil: For sautéing and browning.
- 1 (16-ounce) package kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch pieces: Provides smoky, savory protein.
- 1 red onion, chopped: Adds sweet, caramelized depth.
- 14 ounces baby Brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half: Contributes earthy, tender texture.
- Salt and ground black pepper: Seasons to taste.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Kielbasa: Smoky and savory, it’s the flavorful backbone of the dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Earthy and slightly crisp, they balance the richness of the sausage.
- Red Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- Canola Oil: Ensures even cooking and browning.
Substitutions and Variations
- Canola Oil: Swap with olive oil, avocado oil, or butter for richer flavor.
- Kielbasa Sausage: Replace with smoked sausage, andouille, chorizo, or plant-based sausage for vegetarian.
- Red Onion: Use yellow onion, shallots, or 1 teaspoon onion powder (add with seasoning).
- Baby Brussels Sprouts: Substitute with regular Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved), broccoli florets, or green beans.
- Salt and Pepper: Add garlic salt or seasoned salt for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; confirm kielbasa is gluten-free.
- Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Kielbasa Skillet: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño with the onion.
- Garlic Kielbasa Skillet: Include 2 minced garlic cloves when adding Brussels sprouts.
- Sweet and Savory Skillet: Mix in 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey during the last 2 minutes.
- Veggie-Packed Skillet: Add 1 cup diced bell peppers or carrots with the Brussels sprouts.
- Cheesy Kielbasa Skillet: Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the dish before serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 tablespoon canola oil, 1 (16-ounce) package kielbasa, 1 red onion, 14 ounces baby Brussels sprouts, salt, and pepper.
- Slice kielbasa into ½-inch pieces, chop red onion, trim and halve Brussels sprouts.
Tip: Cut Brussels sprouts uniformly for even cooking; use pre-trimmed sprouts to save time.
Step 2: Sauté Sausage and Onion
- Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 (16-ounce) package sliced kielbasa and 1 chopped red onion; cook and stir until onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
Tip: Stir occasionally to brown kielbasa evenly; onion should soften and lightly caramelize.
Step 3: Cook Brussels Sprouts
- Add 14 ounces halved baby Brussels sprouts to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking; cover briefly (2-3 minutes) if sprouts need more tenderness.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste; stir to combine.
- Serve hot, about 1 cup per serving, with optional sides or garnishes.
Tip: Taste before adding salt, as kielbasa can be salty; serve immediately for the best texture
FAQs
1. Why are my Brussels sprouts mushy?
Overcooking or overcrowding can cause this; cook just until tender and ensure a single layer in the skillet.
2. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, thaw and pat dry first to avoid excess moisture; cooking time may be slightly shorter.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if kielbasa is gluten-free (check label).
4. Why is my dish too salty?
Kielbasa and salt can vary; taste before adding extra salt and use low-sodium kielbasa if needed.
5. Can I make this in advance?
Prep ingredients ahead; cook fresh or reheat gently for the best texture.
6. What are the health benefits of this dish?
Brussels sprouts provide fiber and vitamins (C, K); kielbasa offers protein; moderate in fat, pair with low-fat sides for balance.