One-Skillet Sweet Corn Fried Rice with Kielbasa

A Flavorful and Easy One-Pan Meal

This One-Skillet Sweet Corn Fried Rice with Kielbasa is a delicious, quick meal that brings together the smoky flavors of kielbasa, the sweetness of corn, and the savory goodness of fried rice. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s a perfect go-to dish for busy weeknights. The best part? Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal cleanup – Cook everything in one pan.
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Deliciously balanced – The sweet corn complements the smoky kielbasa beautifully.
• Customizable – Add extra veggies or swap out proteins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 12 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha for spice

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Kielbasa

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until fragrant and the onion turns translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add the Corn and Rice

Stir in the sweet corn and let it cook for a minute to warm through. Then, add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps as you stir. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy.

4. Season the Rice

Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

5. Scramble the Eggs

Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble until fully cooked. Once done, mix the eggs into the rice.

6. Add Kielbasa Back

Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

7. Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top, and serve immediately. Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat if desired.

Recipe Variations

• Add more veggies – Bell peppers, peas, or carrots would make great additions.
• Use a different protein – Try diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of kielbasa.
• Make it spicy – Add more chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Use brown rice or quinoa – For a healthier alternative to white rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent fried rice from getting mushy?

Use day-old rice or spread freshly cooked rice on a tray to cool before using. This helps prevent excess moisture.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned or frozen?

Yes! Fresh corn adds extra sweetness and crunch. Simply cut it off the cob and sauté as directed.

What can I substitute for kielbasa?

Smoked sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage would work well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace kielbasa with tofu or a plant-based sausage alternative.

What’s the best type of rice for fried rice?

Jasmine or long-grain rice works best because it remains fluffy and separate when fried.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan can add an extra layer of flavor.

How do I keep the rice from sticking to the pan?

Using a well-seasoned pan or a non-stick skillet helps. Also, ensure the rice is coated in oil before adding sauces.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

How do I make the dish lower in sodium?

Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and choose a kielbasa variety with reduced salt.

Conclusion

One-Skillet Sweet Corn Fried Rice with Kielbasa is a flavorful, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can whip up a dish that’s packed with smoky, sweet, and savory goodness. Customize it to fit your taste and enjoy a hassle-free meal with minimal cleanup!

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