When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, nothing beats the simplicity and flavor of a Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet. This dish brings together the rich smokiness of kielbasa sausage with the comfort of pasta, and a variety of vegetables, creating a meal that’s both wholesome and utterly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up ingredients in your pantry or want a hearty dish to impress family and friends, this recipe delivers every time.
In this guide, we’ll break down every step of creating the perfect Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet, including key ingredients, cooking techniques, and tips to customize the recipe to your taste. This is more than just another pasta dish—it’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that can be made in under 30 minutes.
Why Kielbasa and Pasta Are the Perfect Pair
Kielbasa, a type of Polish sausage, is known for its distinctive smoky flavor, which pairs wonderfully with pasta. The meaty, slightly garlicky notes of kielbasa offer a bold contrast to the tender pasta and fresh vegetables. By combining the sausage with penne pasta and a handful of garden-fresh or pantry-staple vegetables, you create a one-pan dinner that’s rich in taste and texture.
The added bonus? Kielbasa is pre-cooked, which means less time at the stove and more time enjoying your meal. It’s a great protein option for busy weeknights when you need something fast but flavorful.
Ingredients to Make the Perfect Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet
To make this dish as flavorful and easy as possible, we recommend using the following ingredients. Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen or garden:
- 1 (16-ounce) package penne pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas – These add a burst of sweetness and color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- ½ cup chopped onion – Yellow or sweet onions work best.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Fresh garlic will elevate the overall taste.
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced – Sliced into rounds for optimal browning.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes – Choose diced tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor.
- 1 (4-ounce) can sliced mushrooms (optional) – Adds an earthy note to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon white sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional) – Adds depth and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper – Adjust according to your spice preference.
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste – Season generously to bring out the flavors.
- 3 leaves fresh basil, julienned – Fresh basil adds brightness and a peppery edge.
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend – For that melty, gooey finish.
Optional Ingredient Swaps
- Lite kielbasa can be used if you want a lighter version of the dish.
- Frozen onions or jarred garlic can substitute fresh ones in a pinch.
- Swap canned tomatoes for 3-4 fresh tomatoes, seeded and diced, when in season.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil works too.
Step-by-Step Directions for Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions—this usually takes about 11 minutes. In the final 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the frozen peas so they soften along with the pasta.
Pro Tip: To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir it occasionally while it cooks. You want the pasta to be al dente—firm to the bite but not too soft.
2. Sauté the Kielbasa and Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
Next, add the sliced kielbasa sausage. Stir occasionally, allowing the sausage to brown slightly—this should take 3 to 4 minutes. Browning the sausage enhances its natural smoky flavor, making it even more delicious.
3. Build the Sauce
Once the kielbasa is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and the optional mushrooms. If you’re using mushrooms, let them cook down for a couple of minutes. Add the white sugar and balsamic vinegar (if using), which will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and bring out a subtle sweetness in the dish. Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper to add a little heat, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently until the pasta is ready.
4. Combine and Finish
Once the pasta and peas are done, drain them and immediately add them to the skillet with the kielbasa and sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the tomato mixture. At this point, add the julienned basil and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the pasta to sit for about 5 minutes so it can absorb some of the sauce’s flavors.
5. Add the Cheese
To complete the dish, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend over the pasta. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, savory finish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions:
- Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad for a light contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer would be the perfect accompaniment.
Tips for Customizing Your Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet
- Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to peas. Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add more crushed red pepper, or throw in a diced jalapeño or hot Italian sausage instead of kielbasa.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving.
- Use Different Pasta Shapes: Penne works well, but fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni can hold the sauce just as nicely.
The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner
Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet is a perfect go-to meal when you’re craving something filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With its blend of smoky kielbasa, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this versatile skillet dish can be adjusted to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
