Kielbasa and Peppers
From Janet's Recipe Box · 25 min · one skillet
This is the dinner I make when I want something hearty and cozy with almost no effort and barely any cleanup. Smoky kielbasa gets browned until the edges crisp, then sweet bell peppers and onions cook down soft and jammy in the same pan. It comes together in about twenty-five minutes, it is budget-friendly, and it works over rice, in a hoagie roll, or just on its own. Perfect for a busy fall weeknight. Here is how I make it.
Ingredients
- 1 package kielbasa (about 14 oz), sliced into coins
- 3 bell peppers, any colors, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper
- A splash of broth or water to deglaze
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes or a spoon of Dijon
How I make it
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the sliced kielbasa and brown it for a few minutes until the edges crisp, then scoop it out and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the peppers and onion and cook, stirring now and then, until soft and starting to caramelize, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and cook another minute until fragrant.
- Splash in a little broth or water to lift up all the browned bits, then return the kielbasa to the pan and toss to warm through.
- Taste, adjust the seasoning, and serve over rice, in a roll, or on its own.
Make it your own
Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes, pile it into a hoagie with melty provolone, or add a can of drained white beans to stretch it. It is a perfect quick dinner alongside my one-pot mac and cheese when you want something cozy.
My one-skillet staples
The cast iron skillet I make this in, my favorite knife, and the wooden spoons I use are all in my Amazon storefront.
Shop my kitchen staples → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.Frequently asked questions
What sausage works besides kielbasa?
Smoked sausage, andouille, or turkey kielbasa all work great. Use whatever smoky sausage you like or have on hand.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. It reheats beautifully, so it is great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge and warm it in a skillet or the microwave.
What do you serve with kielbasa and peppers?
Rice, mashed potatoes, or a hoagie roll are my go-tos. It is filling enough to be a meal on its own, too.
Janet
Orlando mom and the creator behind Planet Janet TV. Janet's Recipe Box is my collection of the approachable, slightly elevated meals I actually cook. Come say hi on Instagram.
Creamy Sausage & Rice One-Pot
Another smoky-sausage dinner for the cozy weeknight rotation.
Read the sausage & rice recipe →A Janet's Recipe Box favorite, exactly how I make it at home. Amounts are a starting point, adjust to taste.