10 Best Kielbasa Recipes in 2024: Savor the Flavor

Kielbasa is a Polish sausage usually made from pork, beef, or a combination of both. The meat is seasoned with garlic, marjoram, and other spices, which create the robust and savory flavor we all know and love. Kielbasa can be smoked or unsmoked, depending on the variety. This is why this is a highly versatile sausage that can be grilled, boiled, baked, or sautéed. 

While it’s not the healthiest of foods (a typical serving contains around 15-20 grams of fat and lots of sodium), you can enjoy it occasionally. If you follow the Keto diet, you might be drawn to kielbasa’s high protein and fat content relative to its carbs. However, it’s still a processed food that should be enjoyed in moderation.

Our in-house nutritionist also highlighted the fact that kielbasa goes well with healthier food choices, such as grilled veggies, leafy greens, cabbage, and others. Following their tips, I put together a list of easy recipes that include kielbasa as the main ingredient. So, if you like this Polish delight, I’m sure you’ll enjoy browsing my selection!

1. Sausage Potato Soup 

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound of diced smoked kielbasa

• 6 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed) 

• 2 cups frozen corn

• 1-1/2 cups chicken broth

• 1 sliced celery stick

• 1/4 cup of sliced carrot

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1-1/2 cups whole milk

• 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley

Method

1. Cook the kielbasa over medium heat using a large saucepan for around 5 minutes or until lightly browned.

2. Remove the sausage from the pan on a plate covered with a paper towel (to absorb some grease). Also, drain the oil from the pan.

3. Add the veggies and broth to the same pan with the seasonings. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until all the veggies are tender (it should take around 15 minutes). 

5. Add the cooked sausage, parsley, milk, and cheese (or milk and cheese dairy-free versions).

6. For about 5 minutes, stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is hot.

7. Serve with veggie dishes, croutons, or good-old crusty bread.

Overview

Kielbasa Potato Soup is a flavorful, warming dish that brings together the smokiness of kielbasa sausage and the creaminess of potatoes in a comforting broth. This soup is simple to make and perfect for cold weather or as a filling meal any time of the year.

While it is a bit high in carbs and fats, it’s also packed with protein. Potatoes also have a bunch of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, while the broth and vegetables (such as carrots or onions) enhance the soup’s nutritional value with vitamins A and K.

Overall, this is a hearty, home-cooked meal that fills your body and soul when you need something comforting yet nutritious. It’s a favorite among families, as it’s filling, affordable, and easy to prepare in large batches.

2. Kielbasa Skillet 

Ingredients

• 16 ounces turkey kielbasa, sliced (1/2-inch thick)

• 6 to 8 medium potatoes cut into cubes

• 1 medium to large tomato 

• 1 large bell pepper

• 1 large onion

• 2 to 3 tablespoons Season All

• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil

Method

1. Wash, peel, and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Next, add the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. When the oil is heated, add the cut potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring often, for about 10 minutes.

3. Add the other vegetables with a generous sprinkling of Season All (or any mix of seasoning that goes well with potatoes). Stir everything so the spices coat the veggies, and cook for another 5 minutes.

4. Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and continue stirring for another 5 minutes. Add more spice if you think it’s necessary.

5. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook until the potatoes are fully tender. 

Overview

This is the perfect single-pan family dinner for cold days! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty, comforting meal in no time. Plus, the recipe is flexible, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to clear out the fridge. 

Besides being simple and easy to make, the flavor profile is quite complex. The smoky flavor of the kielbasa blends beautifully with crispy potatoes and tender veggies. Also, it pairs perfectly with fermented foods like sauerkraut or pickles.

3. Smoked Kielbasa with Rice

Ingredients

• 2 pounds smoked kielbasa, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 finely chopped bacon strips 

• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

• 3/4 cup honey barbecue sauce

• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon grated horseradish

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 2 teaspoons water

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• Hot cooked rice (3 cups)

Method

1. Place a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. 

2. Add the kielbasa, onion, and bacon, and saute for a few minutes (or until the onion is tender).

3. Set the cooked ingredients aside on a plate, and drain the grease from the pan.

4. Put the pan back on medium-high heat and add the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, horseradish, water, garlic, and pepper flakes. Bring to a boil and continue stirring for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is thickened. 

5. Combine the sauce with the cooked kielbasa and veggies, and make sure everything is well-coated. Serve with a side of fluffy rice.

Overview

Smoked Kielbasa with Rice is an easy-to-make recipe that brings a touch of sophistication to your dinner table. The smoky, savory flavor of kielbasa blends perfectly with fluffy, seasoned rice for a dish that feels both exotic and comforting. 

Despite its gourmet appeal, it’s simple enough for weeknights and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The recipe allows room for customization, whether adding herbs, spices, or vegetables. Serve it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread to elevate the meal even more.

4. Kielbasa Cabbage Stew

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound of sliced smoked turkey kielbasa

• 1 pound peeled and cubed potatoes 

• 2 cups shredded cabbage

• 1 large onion (chopped)

• 1 can of reduced-sodium chicken broth

• 1 can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)

• 3/4 cup water

• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Method

1. Wash, peel, and chop the veggies. Slice the kielbasa, and place the beans and chicken broth within reach. 

2. Place a large saucepan or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until brown. 

3. Add all the veggies, broth, and 1/2 cup water. Next, add the sugar, caraway seeds, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir from time to time.

4. Finally, add the beans and cider vinegar. Cover and let it simmer for around 5 to 10 minutes. 

5. Combine the flour with the remaining water and stir until it’s well incorporated and smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew and bring to a boil. Continue stirring until thickened.

Overview

This stew is the perfect dish to warm you up on cold winter days. It has a thick texture and a mixture of unique flavors: the spicy smoked sausage, the earthy potatoes, and the peppery cabbage are well-balanced by the tang of cider vinegar and the sweetness of sugar. 

The result is a comforting, rich meal that satisfies from the first spoonful. The combination of savory kielbasa and the vibrant flavors of cabbage and vinegar makes this stew both hearty and bright. The addition of beans makes this a dense, filling meal that needs no side dish.

5. Kielbasa Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 pound kielbasa sausage (sliced or cubed)

• 8 ounces pasta (choose your favorite: fusilli, penne, or macaroni)

• 2 cups spinach (chopped)

• 1 sliced onion

• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup creme fraiche

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Method

1. Boil the pasta in a pot of water, following the instructions on the package.

2. Meanwhile, prep the onions, spinach, and garlic.

3. Slice the kielbasa, add it to a skillet over medium-high heat with a few drops of olive oil, and sauté until the sausage starts to get brown (max 5 minutes).

4. Add the onions and garlic to the sausage. Cook for a few more minutes until the onion is soft.

5. Get the pasta out of the water (make sure it has the right texture), and add it to the skillet.

6. Add creme fraiche, Parmesan cheese, spinach, mustard and seasoning.

7. Stir to make sure the pasta and sausage are well-coated in this delicious mixture. Add pepper and salt to taste.

Overview

This is a creamy, mouth-watering pasta dish that's as easy to make as it is satisfying. The smoky flavor of kielbasa perfectly complements the rich, velvety sauce, coating every bite of tender pasta. I prefer bite-sized pasta like penne, but you can also use long, thin pasta like spaghetti.

This recipe is both budget-friendly and indulgent, making it the perfect choice for a filling weekday meal. If you like an extra kick in your meals, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish as a finishing touch. The spice awakens the heavy sauce for a comforting dinner that everyone will love.

6. Sheet Pan Turkey Kielbasa and Potatoes 

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby potatoes (cut in half or bite-size pieces)

• 12 oz turkey kielbasa (you can use whatever variety you like)

• 3 large bell peppers (sliced)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme 

• 1/4 tsp sea salt 

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F and prep the ingredients. 

2. Put the potatoes in a large bowl and mix with oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and salt. Mix everything well so the potato bits are well-coated.

3. Get a baking sheet with a silicone liner or parchment paper liner. Spread the potatoes on it (make sure they’re not crowded) and place in the oven at 450 for 15 minutes.

4. Remove the potatoes from the oven, add the sliced kielbasa and bell pepper, and bake for 10 more minutes.

5. Stop the oven, remove the tray, and place the baked goodies onto a large plate. Let it cool down a bit, and serve.

Overview

This is the perfect fuss-free meal for busy nights, since you just have to toss it in the oven with limited prep. While the kielbasa, peppers, and potatoes roast in the oven, you’ll have time to whip up a side dish or do other chores. This hearty main course would be great on its own or with an easy side salad – kielbasa pairs beautifully with spinach or kale!

This dish lends itself well to customization. Instead of (or in addition to) the bell pepper, you can add onions, green beans, cabbage, or any other veggies you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftover produce you have sitting in the fridge. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish with savory, smoky flavors from the kielbasa, balanced by the earthy sweetness of roasted vegetables.

7. Kielbasa Swiss Omelet

Ingredients

• 3 oz kielbasa sausage cut up into pieces

• 3 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons milk

• 1 pinch of salt

• 1 tablespoon butter (or vegetable oil)

• 2 tablespoons Swiss cheese

• Fresh chives or parsley

Method

1. Place a 9-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add the sliced kielbasa when the pan is hot enough. Let them sear for a few minutes, and transfer to a plate. 

2. Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.

3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and milk.

4. Place the skillet back over medium heat with the butter and wait until it melts. If you’re using vegetable oil, wait until it’s hot. Make sure the pan’s button is well-coated in butter or oil.

5. Pour the egg mixture into the hot skillet (spread evenly on the entire surface), and let everything cook for 3 to 5 minutes.

6. When the omelet is cooked, sprinkle the grated cheese on top and add the kielbasa. Use a spatula to fold the omelet’s sides over the filling.

7. Place the omelet onto a plate, and sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top. Enjoy!

Overview

Kielbasa is an underrated option in the morning. What better way to start your day than with a hearty breakfast that combines the rich, savory flavors of kielbasa with the creamy, nutty essence of Swiss cheese? This dish is a delightful experience that brings together the best of both worlds.

You can also add more to this omelet and make it a truly special dish. You can introduce new flavors and textures with diced veggies like bell peppers and onions. These will also round out the nutrition of the dish. Whether you keep it simple or make it fancy, the combination of fluffy eggs, gooey cheese, and snappy kielbasa make this a winner.

8. Kielbasa and Sauerkraut on the Slow Cooker

Ingredients

• 20 ounces of uncooked kielbasa

• 2 pounds sauerkraut

• ⅓ onion (diced)

• ½ cup of sauerkraut juice

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons brown monkfruit (you can use brown sugar instead)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Method

1. In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the olive oil and kielbasa (whole) and sauté until browned on all sides. Place the browned kielbasas on a plate.

2. Drain the sauerkraut and keep ½ cup of the juice.

3. Combine the sauerkraut juice, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and mustard into a medium-sized bowl and whisk to combine.

4. In your slow cooker insert, add the sauerkraut at the bottom. Next, add the onions and sprinkle the brown monkfruit (or sugar), salt, and pepper on top.

5. Pour the liquid mixture in, and add the browned kielbasa to the top. 

6. Cover and cook on high for 2 and a half hours or low for 4 to 5 hours. Enjoy!

Overview

This recipe is great if you’re on a keto diet, but it also works as a hearty and delicious dinner during the cold season. It’s easy to make, and the mixture of flavors and tastes is mouthwatering!

It also stores well in the fridge if you keep it in an air-thigh container. However, I don’t think it will last too long since it’s difficult to stop once you take the first bite. The kielbasa becomes tender and juicy after cooking and combines exceptionally well with the tang of the sauerkraut, which melts in your mouth. 

9. Kielbasa Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 16 ounces elbow macaroni

• 14 ounces kielbasa (sliced into coins)

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Method

1. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package.

2. Meanwhile, slice the kielbasa and make sure the other ingredients are within reach. When the pasta is done cooking, drain and set aside.

3. Place a skillet over medium-high heat, and lightly brown the kielbasa coins on all sides. Remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

4. Go back to the pot you used for the pasta. Place it over medium heat and add the cream. Add the spices and stir continuously until the cream starts to steam.

5. Add the shredded cheeses and stir everything until melted.

6. Turn the heat to low and stir in the cooked pasta and browned kielbasa. Stir for a few minutes more so all the ingredients are coated in cheese and cream. Serve hot.

Overview

This dish combines the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the smoky flavor of kielbasa sausage. It’s easy to make, and you can sneak in any veggies the kids claim they don’t like, like spinach or broccoli.

It works perfectly well as a hearty main course or a side dish. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance its richness. For added flavor, consider topping with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture or garnishing with fresh herbs.

10. Kielbasa and Hash Brown Egg Casserole

Ingredients

• 14 oz cooked kielbasa (sliced into bite-sized pieces)

• 10 eggs

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup onion (chopped )

• 2 teaspoons garlic (chopped )

• 2 cups of baby spinach (coarsely chopped)

• 6 cups hash browns

• 2 cups (8 oz) shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend

• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• ½ cup sliced green onions

Method

1. Heat the oven to 350°F. While you wait, spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray (or use a piece of butter) and prep the ingredients. 

2. Put a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and brown the kielbasa for 3 to 5 minutes.  Remove from skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and add in the onion and garlic. Saute for 3 to 5 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the spinach and continue cooking for 1 minute more.

3. Get your greased-up baking sheet and add half of the hash browns as the bottom layer. The next layer will be a mixture of 1 and a half cups of cheese, kielbasa, onion, and spinach. Add the remaining hash browns on top.

4. Get a bowl big enough to fit 10 eggs, and whisk the eggs and milk until combined. Add the mustard, salt, and pepper to the mix. 

5. When everything is well incorporated, pour the egg mixture into the baking dish, on top of all the layers, and top everything with the rest of the cheese. 

6. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until golden brown. Check the center with a toothpick to make sure everything is cooked. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool down for about 15 minutes. 

7. Add green onions on top and serve with prepared horseradish. Bon appetit!

Overview

Despite the long list of ingredients, this is an easy-to-make dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s also convenient since you can buy frozen hashbrown patties at the supermarket. Plus, everyone loves a steaming hot slice of this casserole! Yes, this includes the kids who may even ask for a slice in their school lunch.

The recipe is also highly versatile, as you can toss in any extra veggies you have around, like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. This will enhance the flavor and add more nutrients to your meal.

FAQ

What is kielbasa?

Kielbasa is a smoked sausage that originates from Poland. It is known for its distinctive garlic flavor and smoky aroma. There are various types of kielbasa, but the smoked version, typically sold pre-cooked in the United States, can be eaten without further cooking. Fresh kielbasa must be cooked before consumption.

How do you cook kielbasa?

Kielbasa can be prepared in several ways, including boiling, grilling, pan-frying, roasting, or air frying. Overall, this delicious sausage is quite versatile, and you can find it in a wide range of recipes, from soups (Sausage Potato Soup) to pasta dishes (Kielbasa Mac And Cheese).

How can I serve kielbasa?

Kielbasa can be served on its own or as part of a dish. It is often enjoyed in a bun like a hot dog, topped with onions or mustard. It can also be included in soups, stews, or casseroles for added flavor. If you’re curious, check out our Kielbasa Cabbage Stew recipe.

What are the differences between fresh and smoked kielbasa?

Fresh kielbasa is raw, requires cooking, and has a lighter flavor and coarser texture. Smoked kielbasa is pre-cooked, can be eaten cold, features a richer, smoky flavor, and has a longer shelf life. Each type offers unique culinary uses and experiences.