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Traditional Polish Homemade Kielbasa
Kielbasa is a classic Polish sausage that’s made with love and care. This recipe yields a delicious, flavorful, and juicy kielbasa that’s perfect for snacking, grilling, or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon marjoram
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, salt, black pepper, marjoram, and caraway seeds. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Stuff the mixture into hog casings or synthetic casings, if desired. Twist the kielbasa into 6-inch links.
4. Place the kielbasa in a large pot or container. Cover with white vinegar and water. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Cook the kielbasa in boiling water for 30 minutes, then remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoked Homemade Kielbasa with Garlic
Transform your taste buds with this mouthwatering smoked kielbasa, infused with the savory flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork sausage (kielbasa)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup wood chips (apple or cherry work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Apply the garlic mixture evenly onto the kielbasa, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
4. Place the kielbasa in the smoker, close the lid, and let it cook for 2-3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes, add wood chips to the smoker for that extra smoky flavor.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Tips:
– Make sure to monitor the temperature and adjust as needed to maintain a consistent heat.
– Let the kielbasa rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Spicy Homemade Kielbasa with Paprika
This recipe brings a bold twist to the classic Polish sausage by adding a spicy kick from smoked paprika and garlic. Perfect for snacking, grilling, or serving with your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, finely ground
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, grated onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Add brown sugar and mix until incorporated.
3. Gradually add cold water while mixing until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Knead the mixture for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Stuff into casings or form into logs, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Grill or pan-fry at medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through.
Homemade Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the savory taste of homemade kielbasa with tangy sauerkraut. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb homemade kielbasa (or store-bought), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauerkraut mixture.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Grilled Homemade Kielbasa with Mustard Glaze
A flavorful twist on traditional Polish sausage, this grilled kielbasa is smothered in a tangy mustard glaze for an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb homemade kielbasa (see recipe or use store-bought)
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill kielbasa for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush the mustard glaze all over the kielbasa.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa and Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of homemade kielbasa with tender potatoes, onions, and cheese for a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb homemade kielbasa, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Arrange half of the potato slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the cooked kielbasa, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.
5. Repeat the layers, starting with the potatoes, then the onion mixture, and finally the remaining cheese.
6. Pour the heavy cream over the top layer and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Homemade Kielbasa with Beer
Perfect for a cozy evening or a gathering with friends, this slow-cooked kielbasa recipe is infused with the rich flavors of beer and traditional spices. Let the aromas fill your home as you enjoy this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sausage casings (kielbasa)
– 1/4 cup beer
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Remove the sausage casings from the kielbasa and place them in the slow cooker.
3. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and black pepper on top of the sausages.
4. Pour in the beer, making sure the ingredients are covered.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the kielbasa is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as crusty bread or potato salad.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Homemade Kielbasa Stuffed Peppers
Savory kielbasa sausage fills sweet bell peppers in this hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb homemade kielbasa sausage (or store-bought)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook kielbasa sausage according to package instructions or homemade recipe. Chop into small pieces.
4. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add cooked kielbasa, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the kielbasa mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup
This classic Polish-inspired soup is a comforting blend of tender kielbasa, tangy cabbage, and aromatic spices. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb homemade kielbasa (or store-bought), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and cabbage. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa Pierogi Casserole
Experience the classic Polish comfort of pierogies with a twist! This casserole combines tender kielbasa sausage, creamy mashed potatoes, and homemade pierogi filled with sautéed onions and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound homemade pierogi (see below for recipe)
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pierogi according to package instructions or recipe below.
3. In a large skillet, sauté sliced kielbasa sausage until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil diced potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the pierogi in the bottom. Top with sautéed kielbasa, mashed potatoes, and grated cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top layer.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Homemade Pierogi Recipe:
(coming soon!)
Homemade Kielbasa and Egg Breakfast Skillet
Start your day with a hearty breakfast skillet packed with the flavors of homemade kielbasa, scrambled eggs, and crispy potatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb homemade kielbasa (or store-bought)
– 6 large eggs
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned and crispy.
3. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the same skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to scramble.
6. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the eggs and stir until combined.
7. Add the cooked kielbasa back into the skillet and stir gently to combine with the egg mixture.
8. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa with Caramelized Onions
Savor the rich flavors of Eastern European cuisine with this easy-to-make kielbasa recipe, perfectly paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork strips, kosher salt, black pepper, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well until the meat is evenly coated.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the kielbasa from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
5. Place the sliced onions in a separate bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
6. Bake the kielbasa for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly browned. Simultaneously, caramelize the onions by baking them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the kielbasa with caramelized onions and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa and Bean Stew
A classic Polish-inspired dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This stew is a flavorful combination of tender kielbasa, creamy beans, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb homemade or store-bought kielbasa, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven 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, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the kidney beans, beef broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of homemade kielbasa, fresh herbs, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup homemade kielbasa, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread olive oil evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange sliced kielbasa on top of the oil, followed by chopped parsley and basil.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the herbs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa and Pasta Bake
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of homemade kielbasa sausage with penne pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing main dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound homemade kielbasa sausage (see note)
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Slice the homemade kielbasa sausage into thick coins.
4. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and sliced sausage.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa with Apples and Cider
This recipe combines the savory flavors of homemade kielbasa with the sweetness of apples and the tanginess of cider, creating a perfect autumnal dish. The result is a hearty and aromatic sausage that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add apple cider, chopped apples, and brown sugar to the mixture. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
4. Stuff the mixture into casings (or use a sausage stuffer) to form 4-6 sausages.
5. Place the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa and Cheese Stuffed Bread
This hearty bread is filled with the flavors of homemade kielbasa sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of onion. Perfect for a comforting snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (14-16 inches)
– 1/2 pound homemade kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a large skillet, cook the kielbasa sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Butter the cut side of the bread with olive oil.
6. Stuff each bread half with the cooked kielbasa mixture, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Kielbasa and Lentil Soup
Warm up with a hearty and comforting bowl of homemade kielbasa and lentil soup, packed with tender sausage and nutritious lentils. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Polish-style kielbasa, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the kielbasa over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your kitchen with these 18 delicious homemade kielbasa recipes! From traditional Polish-style sausages to innovative twists like smoked garlic and spicy paprika, there’s something for every taste. Try pairing your kielbasa with sauerkraut in a hearty skillet, or adding it to a potato casserole or slow-cooked stew. And don’t miss the creative combinations like kielbasa-stuffed peppers, pierogi casserole, and even breakfast skillets. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these authentic recipes will have you hooked on homemade kielbasa!
