Looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dinner option? This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet comes together in just minutes and is packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavor. Featuring lean turkey kielbasa, crisp broccoli, and a light cheddar cheese sauce, it’s a perfect choice for health-focused eaters who don’t want to sacrifice taste. Ideal for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal keeps cleanup simple and your belly happy. Creamy, savory, and totally comforting — without the guilt!
Ingredients
- 6 oz turkey kielbasa, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk
- 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for about 30 seconds.
- Add the sliced turkey kielbasa to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the broccoli florets to the same skillet. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water, cover with a lid, and steam for about 3–4 minutes until just tender. Remove the lid and cook for 1 more minute to let any remaining water evaporate.
- Push the broccoli to the side of the skillet. Sprinkle the flour into the empty part of the skillet and whisk in the milk slowly until smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground pepper. Stir everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet and stir to combine with the broccoli and cheese sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 260
Protein (g): 17
Fat (g): 15
Carbohydrates (g): 13
Fiber (g): 3
Sugar (g): 4
Sodium (mg): 720
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers of the Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. For best texture, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to storage containers.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the portion in a skillet over medium-low heat and stir occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed evenly. Avoid overheating to preserve the creamy texture and keep the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Modifications and Enhancements
To boost the nutritional value while maintaining a paleo approach, consider swapping the low-fat milk and cheese with unsweetened almond milk and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Adding chopped spinach or kale can increase fiber and micronutrient content, while stirring in cooked chicken or diced hard-boiled eggs can elevate the protein content. Using arrowroot starch or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour helps keep the dish grain-free and paleo-compliant.
