Kielbasa – the classic Polish sausage – is a staple at many family gatherings, holidays, and casual get-togethers. Its smoky flavor and slightly sweet taste make it a perfect addition to any meal. But why settle for just grilling or pan-frying your kielbasa when you can elevate it to a whole new level with creative recipes? In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and easy-to-make fresh kielbasa recipes that will spice up your mealtime routine. From hearty stews and soups to flavorful pasta dishes and skillet meals, we’ve got you covered.
Grilled Fresh Kielbasa with Peppers and Onions
Grilled Fresh Kielbasa with Peppers and Onions Recipe
Get ready to savor the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled kielbasa, paired with caramelized peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush kielbasa with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional spices.
3. Grill kielbasa for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and slightly charred.
4. While kielbasa is grilling, toss bell peppers and onions with a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush with olive oil.
5. Add peppers and onions to the grill and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve grilled kielbasa with roasted peppers and onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet
Elevate your weeknight meals with this hearty, one-pot wonder that combines the rich flavors of kielbasa and sauerkraut.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauerkraut, garlic, and caraway seeds to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the flavors have melded together and the sausage is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Fresh Kielbasa with Potatoes and Carrots
Slow Cooker Fresh Kielbasa with Potatoes and Carrots: A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa sausage
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4-5 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Place the kielbasa sausage in the slow cooker.
2. Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, chicken broth, and olive oil on top of the sausage.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Fresh Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of fresh kielbasa, tender cabbage, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa, sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, caraway seeds, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Add the chicken broth and browned kielbasa back to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
Fresh Kielbasa Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
A flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the tanginess of fresh kielbasa sausage with a rich garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb. fresh kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add sliced kielbasa to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture; toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Potato Hash
Savor the flavors of Eastern Europe with this hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or brunch gathering. Fresh kielbasa pairs perfectly with crispy potato hash and a hint of onion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss potatoes and onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, stirring occasionally.
4. Slice kielbasa into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
5. In a large skillet, cook kielbasa over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
6. Serve warm kielbasa with roasted potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Fresh Kielbasa and Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines the savory flavor of fresh kielbasa with the comfort of creamy beans, making it a perfect winter warmer. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, and brown sugar.
5. Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa with Apple and Onion Compote
Elevate your casual gatherings with this sweet and savory combination of fresh kielbasa, caramelized apples, and onions. Perfect for a fall or winter evening, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or sweet), peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the sliced onions on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with butter, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, cook the fresh kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Add sliced apples to the same skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Combine roasted onions with apple mixture and stir in honey.
7. Serve the warm kielbasa alongside the apple and onion compote.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake
This hearty bake combines the flavors of Poland with the simplicity of a one-dish meal. Fresh kielbasa, crispy pierogies, and melted cheddar cheese come together in a satisfying and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa sausage
– 12-16 pierogies (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the kielbasa according to package instructions until browned and crispy.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the sliced onion in butter until softened.
4. Arrange the pierogies on top of the onion mixture.
5. Place the cooked kielbasa slices on top of the pierogies.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Corn Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of freshly made kielbasa sausage with sweet corn, potatoes, and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sliced kielbasa sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until they are translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, frozen corn kernels, chicken broth, and milk or heavy cream to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Return the cooked kielbasa sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the savory flavor of kielbasa sausage with a medley of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a wok. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add cooked kielbasa back into the pan and stir to combine with vegetables.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Add a twist to traditional stuffed peppers with the savory flavor of fresh kielbasa and melted cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, garlic, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each pepper with cooked kielbasa, shredded cheese, and cooked rice.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Lentil Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the flavors of fresh kielbasa sausage with red lentils, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of Eastern Europe with the richness of Italy. Fresh kielbasa sausage is paired with sautéed mushrooms and creamy risotto for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa sausage
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook kielbasa sausage in boiling water for 5 minutes, then slice into thick rounds.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until risotto is creamy.
6. Stir in cooked kielbasa and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells. Fresh kielbasa adds a savory, meaty flavor to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked spinach, drained and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped spinach and stir until wilted. Let cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, combine cooked kielbasa mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat-filled mixture and place in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are golden brown and filling is heated through.
Fresh Kielbasa and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the savory flavors of fresh kielbasa with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all cooked to perfection in one pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa, sliced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet, tossing to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Tomato Basil Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Poland with Italy, bringing together the spicy kick of fresh kielbasa and the brightness of tomato basil sauce with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 lb. fresh kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil and reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta, kielbasa, and tomato basil sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Zucchini Boats
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled kielbasa and roasted zucchini with a Mediterranean twist, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa sausage
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and hollow out the centers, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the kielbasa sausage.
5. Grill the sausage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top each boat with a piece of grilled kielbasa and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Roasted Vegetable Medley
Experience the perfect blend of savory sausage and colorful vegetables, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh kielbasa (Polish-style sausage)
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 large yellow bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the sliced bell peppers, zucchinis, and carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, slice the fresh kielbasa into thick rounds.
6. Place the sausage slices on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast the sausage alongside the vegetables for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Serve the roasted sausage and vegetables together, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Fresh Kielbasa and Egg Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast scramble featuring fresh kielbasa, eggs, and sautéed onions. This hearty dish is perfect for a weekend morning or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh kielbasa, sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until browned.
4. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork. Pour the egg mixture over the kielbasa and onions in the skillet.
5. Cook the scrambled eggs until just set, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering fresh kielbasa recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Grilled with peppers and onions, paired with sauerkraut in a skillet, or slow-cooked with potatoes and carrots – the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a cozy dinner, these fresh kielbasa recipes will inspire your culinary creativity.