Kielbasa and Beans

Kielbasa and Beans Recipe - Hearty and Satisfying Option for Any Occasion

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Kielbasa and beans is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the smoky flavor of kielbasa sausage with the rich and creamy texture of beans. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, as it is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

History

Kielbasa and beans is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of sausage and beans is a popular one in many cultures, as it is both filling and delicious. This dish is often served at family gatherings and potlucks, as it is easy to make and can feed a crowd.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
1 large green bell pepper, diced, or use part red bell pepper
1 cup chopped onion
1 lb (454 g) kielbasa or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
1 (10.5 oz (298 g)) can tomato soup, undiluted
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (10 oz (283 g)) can diced tomato & green chiles, undrained
3 (16 oz (454 g)) cans pinto beans, undrained
4 (15 oz (425 g)) cans pork & beans, undrained
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
2 cup (8 oz (227 g)) shredded cheddar cheese or monterey jack

How to prepare

Cook ground beef, green pepper, and onion in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, stirring and breaking up until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Remove from skillet and drain. Brown smoked sausage in the same skillet and drain. Sponsored Links.

Variations

Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage for a lighter version of this dish.
Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness and flavor.
Mix in some cooked rice or quinoa for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the excess fat from the ground beef and sausage after browning to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.

- Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite beans or vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

- For a spicier version, add some hot sauce or diced jalapenos to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve kielbasa and beans with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added color and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use a slow cooker to make this dish ahead of time and let it simmer for several hours for maximum flavor.

- For a quicker version, use canned beans instead of dried beans and reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of sausage you prefer, such as chorizo or Italian sausage.

- Substitute black beans or kidney beans for the pinto beans for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve kielbasa and beans in individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair kielbasa and beans with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

400

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 10g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 20%

- Iron: 25%

Alergens

Contains: Dairy

Summary

Kielbasa and beans is a high-protein and fiber-rich dish that is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. However, it is also high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Kielbasa and beans is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With its rich and smoky flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Kielbasa and Beans. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box when I stumbled upon a worn, faded index card with the words "Kielbasa and Beans" scrawled across it in loopy cursive.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me of the first time I had tasted this dish. It was at a family gathering many years ago, and my aunt had brought a steaming pot of Kielbasa and Beans to share with everyone. The rich, smoky flavors of the sausage combined with the creamy beans had left a lasting impression on me, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking, and over the years, I had amassed a collection of recipes from various places and people. Each recipe held a special meaning to me, whether it was a cherished family recipe passed down through generations or a new dish I had discovered and wanted to recreate.

As I studied the recipe for Kielbasa and Beans, I could almost taste the savory flavors in my mind. The thought of the tender chunks of sausage simmering in a fragrant broth with plump beans and aromatic spices made my mouth water. I knew that this dish would be a hit with my family, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients, including a hearty kielbasa sausage, a variety of beans, onions, garlic, and a medley of herbs and spices. I could feel my excitement growing as I chopped and diced, sautéed and simmered, following the instructions on the faded index card with care.

The kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic and onions as they sizzled in a hot skillet, followed by the rich, smoky scent of the kielbasa as it browned to perfection. I added the beans and broth, along with a pinch of this and a dash of that, adjusting the seasonings to taste as I stirred the pot with a wooden spoon.

As the Kielbasa and Beans simmered on the stove, the flavors melding together to create a delicious harmony, I couldn't help but smile. Cooking had always been a source of joy and comfort for me, a way to express my creativity and love for my family. And as the pot bubbled and steamed, I knew that this dish would be no exception.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of waiting, the Kielbasa and Beans were ready. I ladled generous portions into bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. The first bite was pure bliss, the tender beans and savory sausage melting in my mouth, the flavors rich and satisfying.

I served the dish to my family, watching as their eyes lit up with delight at the first taste. They praised my cooking skills, showering me with compliments and asking for seconds. I couldn't help but swell with pride, knowing that I had created something truly special.

From that day on, Kielbasa and Beans became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time relishing in the joy it brought to those who enjoyed it. And as I shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, passing it down from one generation to the next, I knew that it would always hold a special place in my heart.

Cooking had a way of bringing people together, of creating memories and traditions that would last a lifetime. And as I sat at the table with my family, enjoying the delicious Kielbasa and Beans that I had made with my own two hands, I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be. In the kitchen, surrounded by loved ones, sharing the love and warmth of a home-cooked meal.