This Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Bake is an easy, creamy comfort food that the whole family will love! Turkey kielbasa and penne pasta tossed in a rich, flavorful cream sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella.
This post is generously sponsored by Canadian Turkey and I was compensated for my time in creating this recipe. Thank you for supporting the brands that make The Recipe Rebel possible!
As you know, I love coming up with ways I can take classic comfort foods (like a hearty baked penne pasta!) and turn them into a something that’s healthier and lighter, but just as delicious.
This Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Bake recipe is a lightened up version of a classic. It’s made with broth and milk instead of heavy cream and turkey kielbasa for a leaner option. It’s an easy, healthier dinner that the whole family will love!
Turkey kielbasa is a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional pork kielbasa With its smoky flavor and versatility, turkey kielbasa can elevate a variety of dishes Whether you want to incorporate it into a hearty one-pot pasta, use it in a simple sheet pan dinner, or feature it in a soup or sandwich, turkey kielbasa is a great choice.
In this article, we’ll share 16 delicious and easy recipes that make the most of turkey kielbasa. These recipes range from quick weeknight meals to dishes worthy of a special occasion. With minimal effort, you can enjoy flavorful turkey kielbasa recipes perfect for any meal.
Easy Turkey Kielbasa Recipes
Turkey Kielbasa and Potato Sheet Pan Dinner
This easy sheet pan dinner comes together in under 30 minutes. Turkey kielbasa is paired with potatoes bell peppers, and thyme for a simple yet satisfying meal. The hands-off cooking method makes this recipe a breeze on busy weeknights.
Skillet Turkey Kielbasa with Onion and Peppers
For a fast and fuss-free dinner, try cooking turkey kielbasa with onions and bell peppers in one skillet. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for two.
Crockpot BBQ Turkey Kielbasa and Pineapple
Let the slow cooker do the work with this sweet and smoky dish. Turkey kielbasa and pineapple chunks are cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce for an appetizer or entree with Hawaiian flair.
Turkey Kielbasa and Potato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this hearty soup. Potatoes, carrots, kielbasa, and cabbage simmer in a savory broth for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Turkey Kielbasa Hash
This easy hash is a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pan-cooked turkey kielbasa is combined with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a quick one-pan meal.
Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Salad
Cool and creamy pasta salad gets an upgrade with the addition of turkey kielbasa. This dish makes a perfect potluck or picnic contribution in the summertime.
Gourmet Turkey Kielbasa Recipes
Kielbasa Pasta Bake
For an indulgent dish, try this cheesy pasta bake topped with turkey kielbasa. Penne, kielbasa, and a creamy sauce are baked under a blanket of melted mozzarella for comfort food at its finest.
Pineapple Shrimp and Kielbasa Kabobs
Impress guests with these tasty grilled kabobs. Marinated shrimp and turkey kielbasa are interspersed with pineapple and bell peppers for a meal full of flavor.
Turkey Kielbasa and Baby Kale Strata
This savory bread pudding makes a special brunch dish. Layers of dried cranberries, kielbasa, cheese, and kale come together in a baked egg custard for a sophisticated flavor combination.
One Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Turkey Kielbasa
You only need one pot to make this quick pasta dinner. Turkey kielbasa, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream create a rich sauce for the pasta. Serve with garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
Apricot Turkey Kielbasa
For a unique take on turkey kielbasa, try this apricot glazed version. Slices of kielbasa are cooked with apricot preserves, lemon juice, and Dijon for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Turkey Kielbasa Biscuit Pizza
Transform refrigerated biscuits into a fun pizza-inspired dish. Turkey kielbasa stands in for pepperoni on this quick and easy pizza made with biscuit dough.
Simple Turkey Kielbasa Side Dishes
Glazed Turkey Kielbasa Bites
Make an easy appetizer or snack with these sweet and spicy glazed kielbasa pieces. Browned turkey kielbasa is cooked with brown sugar and ginger ale in the slow cooker for finger-licking flavor.
Roasted Turkey Kielbasa and Vegetables
For a healthy and hearty side, roast turkey kielbasa with potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms. The hands-off cooking method yields caramelized vegetables and juicy kielbasa slices.
Skillet Cabbage and Turkey Kielbasa
Sauté together turkey kielbasa, green cabbage, and seasonings for a fast and delicious side dish. A splash of vinegar brightens up the simple flavors.
Turkey Kielbasa with Baked Beans
Jazz up baked beans by mixing in pieces of turkey kielbasa. Thissavory and slightly sweet side dish is the perfect complement for a summer barbecue.
Turkey Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
For an authentic flavor, braise turkey kielbasa with sauerkraut, potatoes, and caraway seeds. The meaty kielbasa pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut.
Smoky Turkey Kielbasa and Rice
Cut up turkey kielbasa lends its smoky flavor to rice in this simple side dish. Sauté the kielbasa until browned before mixing in rice, broth, and seasonings.
With so many options for easy and delicious turkey kielbasa recipes, there’s no reason not to give this tasty sausage a try. From fast dinner solutions to gourmet dishes, turkey kielbasa is endlessly adaptable. Experiment with these recipes to enjoy smoky, savory turkey kielbasa any night of the week.
How to make this turkey kielbasa pasta bake
This baked penne pasta recipe is the perfect quick and easy throw-together meal!
- Make the sauce: Cook the onion, garlic, and seasonings in melted butter over medium-high heat. Add in the flour, then whisk in the milk and broth. Cook until thickened.
- Make the pasta: Cook the penne pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain, then combine the cooked pasta and finished sauce with sliced kielbasa.
- Bake: Place the mixture in a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 350ºF for 20-25 minutes.
Kielbasa is a type of lightly smoked sausage that originated in Poland. It’s typically made with pork or a combination of pork and beef. However, it can also be made using other types of meat! In this baked penne pasta recipe, we’re using turkey kielbasa. It’s healthier and leaner but with all of the same smoky and spicy flavor!
Yes! Turkey kielbasa is already cooked, so all you have to do is warm it up and it’s ready to go. If you choose to do so, you can brown the kielbasa in a hot skillet with oil before adding it to the pasta. This isn’t totally necessary but does add a nice crisp that contrasts deliciously with the creamy pasta.
This turkey kielbasa pasta bake is delicious on its own or served with an easy side dish or two. Try it with a simple side salad, a scoop of roasted or steamed veggies (Easy Broccoli Salad is one of our favorites!), or a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Absolutely! See my detailed tips for making ahead and freezing in the section below.
Make ahead and storing
To prep the pasta bake ahead of time, simply assemble as instructed but leave off the cheese. Cover and place in the fridge up to 24 hours. To freeze, assemble as directed, leaving the cheese off, then freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to serve, thaw in the fridge if frozen, top with cheese, then bake as directed (I like to add a splash of water or broth before baking so that it doesn’t dry out). You may have to add a little bit of time since the assembled pasta will be cold.
Leftover baked pasta will last in an airtight container for in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen then microwave or warm on the stove until heated through.