Smoky Kielbasa BBQ Bean Skillet

Chuck Wagon Mix Recipe

Overview

• Name: Chuck Wagon Mix
• Description: A quick and flavorful dish perfect for those tight on time. With bold, smoky flavors, this mix is great as a hearty snack or meal and pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips.
• Category: Under 30 Minutes
• Keywords: Easy, Quick, Bold Flavor

Preparation and Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 752.2 kcal
• Fat: 35.3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11.1 g
• Cholesterol: 74.8 mg
• Sodium: 1290.7 mg
• Carbohydrates: 80.2 g
  • Fiber: 9 g
  • Sugars: 10.3 g
• Protein: 27 g

Ingredients

1. 1 kielbasa sausage: Provides the smoky, savory base for the dish.
2. 1 cup cooked rice: Adds bulk and texture, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
3. 3 cups red kidney beans: Adds a rich, earthy flavor and boosts the protein content.
4. 1 cup pinto beans: Contributes to the hearty, creamy texture and complements the kidney beans.
5. 1/2 cup hickory flavored barbecue sauce: Infuses the dish with a tangy, smoky sweetness.

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. This will prevent sticking and help brown the sausage.

2. Cook the Kielbasa: Add the kielbasa sausage to the skillet. Cook until it is browned and has developed a crispy exterior, enhancing its flavor. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

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   • Tip: Cut the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces before cooking for even browning and easier mixing with the other ingredients.

3. Drain the Kielbasa: Once browned, drain the excess oil from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.

4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, red kidney beans, pinto beans, and hickory-flavored barbecue sauce. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the sauce.

5. Heat Through: Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. The sauce should be bubbling slightly, and the beans should be tender.

6. Serve: Serve hot, preferably with a side of tortilla chips for a delightful crunch and added flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce if you like your dishes with a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Add-ins: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or even corn when you add the kielbasa to the skillet.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving for a melty, rich finish.
• Rice Variations: Experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or a wild rice blend, for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Main Dish: Serve as a main dish with a fresh green salad on the side to balance the rich flavors.
• Snack: Enjoy it as a snack with tortilla chips, or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Garnishes: Top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry, or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Breakdown

This Chuck Wagon Mix packs a punch in terms of both flavor and nutritional content:

• Calories: At 752.2 kcal per serving, this dish provides a substantial amount of energy, making it a great choice for a main meal.
• Fat: With 35.3 grams of fat, including 11.1 grams of saturated fat, it has a significant fat content, primarily from the kielbasa and barbecue sauce.
• Cholesterol: Contains 74.8 mg of cholesterol, mainly from the kielbasa.
• Sodium: High in sodium at 1290.7 mg, due to the sausage and barbecue sauce. Consider using low-sodium beans and sauce to reduce this.
• Carbohydrates: Provides 80.2 grams of carbohydrates, including 9 grams of dietary fiber and 10.3 grams of sugar. The fiber content is beneficial for digestion.
• Protein: Offers 27 grams of protein, making it a substantial source of protein for a balanced meal.

Recipe Insights and Customization

• Flavor Profile: This dish combines smoky, tangy, and savory flavors with a hint of sweetness from the barbecue sauce, creating a bold and satisfying taste.
• Texture: The crispy kielbasa contrasts with the creamy beans and soft rice, providing a variety of textures in each bite.
• Customization: Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, use turkey kielbasa and low-sodium beans and sauce.

User Reviews and Rating

• Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
• Review Count: 4

User Feedback:

1. “Perfect for a quick dinner. The flavors meld together so well, and it’s really filling.”
2. “I added some bell peppers and it turned out great. My family loved it!”
3. “Easy and delicious. I served it with some cornbread and it was a hit.”
4. “The barbecue sauce gives it a nice kick. Will definitely make this again.”

Final Thoughts

The Chuck Wagon Mix is a versatile and easy-to-prepare dish that excels in both flavor and convenience. Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner, a satisfying snack, or a hearty meal for game night, this recipe delivers robust taste and a comforting texture in just 20 minutes. With its adaptable ingredients and room for creative variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides to make a complete meal that’s both nourishing and delicious!