Kielbasa Pasta with Broccoli: A Weeknight Dinner Staple
Rich, creamy kielbasa pasta with broccoli has taken center stage at our dinner table lately. This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a staple at your household as well. With a focus on hearty sausage, crisp vegetables, and a velvety sauce, there's something for everyone in this satisfying weeknight meal.
Kielbasa Pasta with Broccoli: A Weeknight Dinner Staple
The story behind this recipe began with a family tradition called "not-eat foods." Each of my sons could choose one food to skip tasting at dinner. For years, my eldest son opted for broccoli. However, when he devoured every bite of this kielbasa pasta, I knew I had found a new favorite.
Ingredients and Substitutions:
- Pasta: Choose bite-sized varieties with plenty of edges to hold sauce, such as cavatappi, penne, fusilli, or bowtie.
- Broccoli: Opt for fresh, tender florets for the best flavor and texture.
- Kielbasa: This Polish sausage provides a satisfying protein boost and a nice texture contrast.
- Cheese: A sharp, hard cheese like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a tangy depth to the dish.
- Sauce: Heavy cream and milk create a rich, creamy base, while reserved pasta water helps achieve the perfect consistency.
- Olive Oil: A small amount is used to promote even browning of the kielbasa.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning is generously applied, but feel free to adjust to taste.
Equipment Needed:
- Large deep-sided skillet (stainless steel works well)
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cup for reserved pasta water
- Knife and cutting board
- Grater (a rotary grater is a great investment)
Instructions:
1. Begin by boiling a large pot of water over high heat on the stove.
2. While the water comes to a boil, thinly slice the kielbasa and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
3. In a large deep-sided skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender but still crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and Italian seasoning. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the kielbasa and broccoli. Pour in the cream sauce and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
7. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. If it's too thin, simmer for a few minutes to reduce.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.
This kielbasa pasta recipe is a testament to the power of simple, flavorful ingredients coming together in harmony. With its creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and crisp broccoli, it's sure to become a weeknight dinner staple in your household as well.