Description

Craving a quick, comforting dish that’s packed with smoky, savory flavors and perfect for a weeknight dinner? The Potato Kielbasa Skillet is your answer! This recipe combines tender red potatoes, smoky kielbasa, and fresh spinach in a tangy-sweet mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon

Ingredients

To make Potato Kielbasa Skillet for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this hearty dish:

Red Potatoes (1 lb, 3–4 medium, cut into 1-inch pieces): Provide creamy, hearty texture.
Water (3 tbsp): Used to steam potatoes in the microwave.
Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp): Brings tangy acidity.
Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp): Adds sharp, savory depth.
Minced Fresh Thyme (1½ tsp) or Dried Thyme (½ tsp): Provides earthy, herbaceous flavor.
Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a mild kick.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing, adding subtle richness.
Chopped Onion (½ cup): Brings sweet, savory depth.
Smoked Kielbasa or Polish Sausage (¾ lb, cut into ¼-inch slices): Adds smoky, meaty flavor.
Fresh Baby Spinach (4 cups): Provides vibrant color and nutrients.
Bacon Strips (5, cooked and crumbled): Adds crispy, smoky richness.

Substitutions and Variations:

Red Potatoes: Swap with Yukon Gold, fingerling potatoes, or sweet potatoes (adjust cooking time).
Kielbasa: Replace with smoked sausage, chorizo, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Cider Vinegar: Use white wine vinegar, apple cider, or lemon juice for similar acidity.
Dijon Mustard: Substitute with whole-grain mustard or spicy brown mustard.
Spinach: Swap with kale, Swiss chard, or arugula (adjust cooking time for tougher greens).
Add-Ons: Include sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The kielbasa and bacon provide protein and smoky flavor, while the potatoes and spinach add fiber, vitamins, and texture. The mustard sauce balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes, making this a hearty yet balanced meal perfect for any occasion.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Place 1 lb red potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces) and 3 tbsp water in a microwave-safe dish.
Cover and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes until tender; drain and set aside.

Tip: Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking, and check tenderness with a fork before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp cider vinegar, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1½ tsp minced fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme), and ¼ tsp pepper until blended. Set aside.

Tip: Whisk thoroughly to dissolve the brown sugar for a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Kielbasa and Onion

In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add ½ cup chopped onion and ¾ lb sliced kielbasa; sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion is tender and the kielbasa is lightly browned.

Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet for easy browning.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Add the microwaved potatoes to the skillet; cook and stir for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned.
Pour in the brown sugar-mustard mixture and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in 4 cups fresh baby spinach until wilted (about 1 minute).
Add 5 cooked and crumbled bacon strips; stir to combine.

Tip: Keep the spinach vibrant by adding it last and cooking just until wilted to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the skillet mixture to a serving dish or divide among 4 plates.
Serve hot, garnished with extra thyme or bacon crumbles if desired.

Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy potatoes and glossy sauce at their best