Kielbasa with Peppers and Onions
Smoky, savory kielbasa sausage pan-fried with sweet bell peppers and tender onions. This one-skillet meal is incredibly flavorful and comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown the Kielbasa
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
- c.Arrange the sliced kielbasa in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, without moving, until deeply browned and slightly crisp.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the browned kielbasa to a plate and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Vegetables
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the same skillet, using the rendered fat from the sausage.
- c.Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, the onions are translucent, and the edges are lightly caramelized.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Aromatics and Seasonings
- b.Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- c.Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and stir to combine.
- c.If using, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
- d.Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the liquid has slightly reduced and everything is heated through.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
- c.Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or in a hoagie roll.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a high-quality smoked Polish kielbasa.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Use a large skillet (12-inch is ideal) to ensure the sausage and vegetables brown properly instead of steaming.
- 3Slice the peppers and onions to a uniform thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- 4For a tangy kick, deglaze the pan with a splash of beer (like a lager) or apple cider vinegar instead of chicken broth.
- 5This dish is excellent for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or one sliced jalapeño along with the garlic for a spicy kick.
Hearty Potato SkilletHearty Potato Skillet
Add 1 lb of diced, par-boiled potatoes to the skillet with the peppers and onions for a more substantial meal.
Creamy StyleCreamy Style
Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a large dollop of sour cream at the very end for a rich, creamy sauce.
Italian TwistItalian Twist
Substitute kielbasa with sweet or hot Italian sausage and add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano with the paprika.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Bell peppers are an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports a healthy immune system, promotes skin health, and aids in iron absorption.
Good Source of Protein
Kielbasa provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and overall body function.
Contains Beneficial Plant Compounds
Onions and garlic contain flavonoids and sulfur compounds, like quercetin and allicin, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the body's cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving has approximately 450-550 calories, primarily from the kielbasa. The exact count depends on the specific brand and type of sausage used.