Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This potato and kielbasa recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that doesn't require advanced culinary skills, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks searching for quick dinner ideas. This recipe is packed with flavor, and it’s surprisingly healthy too – a perfect example of delicious dishes that don’t compromise on nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
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Brown the kielbasa: Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor and texture.
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Add potatoes and broth: Add the cubed potatoes to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are mostly submerged. Stir in the thyme and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer until potatoes are tender: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a splash more broth.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the potatoes are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley (if using) and serve immediately. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect served on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Potato and Kielbasa:
- For crispier potatoes: If you prefer crispier potatoes, you can increase the heat slightly during the last few minutes of cooking and uncover the skillet to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply add them along with the potatoes.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Use a spicy kielbasa for a kick.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer, creamier dish.
- Garlic lovers: Add more garlic! There's no such thing as too much garlic for some people.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This easy recipe for potato and kielbasa is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy!