Kielbasa and Rice Skillet

This kielbasa and rice skillet recipe brings together smoky sausage, tender rice, and sweet green peas for a crowd-pleasing one pan dinner that hits the table in just twenty minutes. It is my top pick for those evenings when I crave comfort and convenience without sacrificing flavor.

I tried this recipe the first week of school when evenings felt extra chaotic and now it is part of our regular rotation. My family loves how cozy it tastes and I love how easy it is to pull off.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage: gives deep savory rich notes choose a high quality sausage for best taste
• Instant rice: cooks super quickly and saves time look for a brand that stays fluffy after cooking
• Frozen peas: add fresh color and a touch of sweetness I grab a bright green bag without icy clumps for better texture
• Dijon mustard: boosts flavor with tang and complexity buy real Dijon for punchy taste
• Dried minced onion: brings gentle sweetness and aromatic base check for freshness in your spice jar
• Sea salt: rounds out all the flavors and enhances sausage and peas try a flaky sea salt for finishing if you have it
• Ground black pepper: offers mild heat if possible use freshly cracked
• Garlic powder: gives mellow savory undertones avoid anything with caking agents
• Paprika: smokiness and color Spanish style sweet paprika is my go to
• Water: for cooking the rice use filtered if your tap water is hard

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Sausage:

Cut the kielbasa into half inch thick rounds This size browns beautifully and is easy to eat

Brown the Sausage:

Heat the cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the sausage Cook for four to five minutes stirring now and then until the sides are caramelized and golden This step builds rich flavor in the dish

Add Everything Else:

Pour in the instant rice frozen peas Dijon mustard dried onions salt pepper garlic powder paprika and water Stir well so the mustard and seasonings coat everything evenly Make sure most of the rice is submerged

Bring to a Boil:

Increase the heat to medium high and wait until the mixture bubbles Store brands of instant rice may bubble faster or slower just watch until steady bubbles appear

Simmer and Soften:

Lower the heat and cover the skillet Let the rice absorb the water for about five to seven minutes Check and stir occasionally until the rice is soft and most liquid is gone

Finish and Serve:

Remove the lid and fluff the rice taste and adjust seasonings Sprinkle with optional butter or shredded cheese right before serving for even more richness

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My son begs for seconds every time I make this but what really makes it special to me is the paprika I grew up using that vibrant red spice in nearly every family meal It feels like home every time it perfumes the kitchen

Storage Tips

Kielbasa and rice skillet keeps well in the fridge for up to three days If storing leftovers let them cool before transferring to an airtight container To reheat sprinkle in a splash of water and microwave or warm gently on the stovetop covered to prevent drying out

Ingredient Substitutions

Any fully cooked sausage works turkey chicken or vegetarian sausage are all options For a veggie packed version add bell peppers or corn If you do not have instant rice try using regular cooked rice and just heat through with all the ingredients

Serving Suggestions

This skillet is satisfying all by itself but a crisp green salad on the side is perfect I sometimes add a fried egg on top for brunch or tuck leftovers into tortillas for quick wraps

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Cultural Context

Kielbasa is a beloved Polish style sausage and rice skillets appear everywhere from the American South to Eastern Europe This dish blends traditions easily turning a handful of humble ingredients into a family favorite with a little global flair

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, turkey or chicken sausage work well. Make sure they're precooked before adding them to the skillet.

→ What type of rice works best?

Instant rice is great for quick cooking, but you can use regular rice. Just adjust cooking time and liquid as needed.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Brown the kielbasa thoroughly for a smoky flavor, and consider adding a splash of hot sauce or extra herbs.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it can be frozen. Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I make this cheese-filled?

Absolutely. Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy version that's extra comforting.

→ Do I need to thaw the peas first?

No, frozen peas can be added straight to the skillet; they'll thaw and cook along with the rice and sausage.