There’s something wonderfully comforting about a one-pan meal that brings together savory meats and hearty rice. My Kielbasa Rice Skillet is exactly that kind of dish—simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day.
This skillet dinner combines smoky kielbasa with fluffy rice and vegetables, all cooked together until the flavors meld perfectly. It’s become a regular in my weeknight rotation because it delivers big on taste without demanding much time or effort—exactly what we all need more of in our cooking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This
- One-pan wonder means minimal cleanup after dinner
- Ready in about 45 minutes, with most of that time being hands-off
- Versatile recipe that works with whatever vegetables you have on hand
- Kid-friendly flavor profile that still satisfies adult palates
- Makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked kielbasa sausage
- 2 cups instant rice
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onions
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cut the kielbasa into even slices about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and brown nicely.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add kielbasa slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes total. Add a little oil if your pan needs it.
- Add instant rice, frozen peas, water, Dijon mustard, dried minced onions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to the skillet. Mix everything well to combine.
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 2-3 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to absorb. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Swap kielbasa for smoked sausage, andouille, or even sliced chicken sausage for a different flavor profile
- Add a can of diced tomatoes along with the broth for a more tomato-forward dish
- Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy finish
- For spicy lovers, add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes
- Use brown rice instead of white for more fiber, but increase cooking time by about 15 minutes and add an extra ½ cup of broth
- Make it Cajun-inspired by using Cajun seasoning instead of paprika and thyme
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is practically a complete dinner on its own, but I love serving it with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to add some freshness to the plate. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the sausage.
For a more substantial spread, warm some crusty bread to serve alongside—it’s perfect for soaking up any remaining flavorful bits from your plate!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to revive the rice
- The rice should be tender but still have a slight bite to it when done—avoid overcooking
- If your skillet doesn’t have a tight-fitting lid, cover with aluminum foil to trap the steam
FAQs
Can I make this with pre-cooked rice?
Yes! If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the broth to just ½ cup and add the rice with the kielbasa in the final 5 minutes of cooking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use turkey kielbasa instead?
Turkey kielbasa works wonderfully and creates a lighter version of this dish with all the same great flavors.
My rice is still crunchy but the liquid is gone. What should I do?
Add another ¼ cup of broth or water, cover tightly, and continue cooking on low heat for another 5 minutes until the rice is tender.
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