Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This one-pan kielbasa and potato recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner solution. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is easily customizable to your taste. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Slice the kielbasa into rounds. Having everything prepped before you begin makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for the dish.
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Combine ingredients: Add the cubed potatoes and kielbasa to the skillet. Stir in the paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the potatoes and kielbasa are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
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Add liquid and bake: Pour the chicken broth (or water) into the skillet. Give it a good stir. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the kielbasa is nicely browned. Stir halfway through cooking for even browning and to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect on its own or served alongside a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Kielbasa and Potato Recipe:
- Choose your kielbasa: You can use any type of kielbasa you prefer – Polish kielbasa, smoked kielbasa, or even a spicy variety. The flavor will vary depending on your choice.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your skillet or roasting pan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or a dash of your favorite herbs.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Creamy Kielbasa and Potatoes: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of baking for a creamy twist.
- Garlic Lovers Version: Add extra garlic – up to 4 or 5 cloves!
- Cheesy Kielbasa and Potatoes: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy, healthy, and delicious kielbasa and potato recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a great example of homemade cooking that doesn't require a lot of time or effort. Enjoy!