Unlock a world of flavor with this incredibly easy kielbasa and peppers skillet recipe! Perfect for a busy weeknight, this one-pan wonder combines smoky, savory kielbasa sausage with sweet bell peppers and tender onions for a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a versatile, colorful, and satisfying dish that requires minimal cleanup. Whether you serve it on its own, over rice, or piled into a bun, this simple recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb Polish kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How to Cook Kielbasa and Peppers
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and quick weeknight dinner.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the sausage is nicely browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the sausage through. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately. This dish is delicious on its own, over a bed of rice, or stuffed into a hoagie roll.
Your Kielbasa Questions Answered
What type of kielbasa is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of pre-cooked Polish kielbasa, whether it’s pork, beef, turkey, or a blend. Both smoked and unsmoked varieties work well, so choose based on your personal preference for flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli. Add them along with the peppers and onions, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
How should I serve kielbasa and peppers?
This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it over white or brown rice, with roasted potatoes, alongside pierogies, or piled into a toasted hoagie roll for a hearty sandwich.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Pro-Tips for the Best Skillet
- Get a Good Sear: Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the kielbasa. A single layer ensures the sausage gets a nice, crispy sear rather than just steaming.
- Slice Uniformly: Try to slice your sausage and vegetables to a similar thickness. This helps ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Deglaze for Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or even beer after sautéing the vegetables, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Kielbasa and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
Ingredients
- 1 lb Polish kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 bell peppers, sliced any color
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and paprika and cook for 1 more minute.
- Return the kielbasa to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.