How to Cook Kielbasa

What is kielbasa?

Kielbasa, which translates to “sausage” in Polish, is a traditional sausage from Poland known for its distinct flavor and coarsely ground texture. It is typically made from a combination of pork and beef, though there are variations including other meats, such as turkey.

Kielbasa sausages has a smoky flavor and also has varying spices such as ginger, marjoram, and black pepper (although packaging often simply says natural flavor).

Does kielbasa need to be cooked?

Yes. Most of the polish kielbasa that you see in the grocery store in packages are fully cooked. But you do still need to heat through. Most popular brands of kielbasa, such as Hillshire Farms, have the warning to “always heat through” before serving.

Thankfully, because the kielbasa is fully cooked, it doesn’t take long to heat it through. Most kielbasa can be heated and ready to eat in about 10 minutes.

At some specialty meat shops, you may be able to buy raw or fresh kielbasa. This means it is uncooked and should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165° and 175° F before serving.

How to Pan Fry Kielbasa

• Cut the kielbasa into 5 or 6 pieces.
• Slice through the center lengthwise of the kielbasa (but don’t cut all the way through), so you can split the sausage open to lay flat. (You can also cut the kielbasa in slices.)
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place each piece of kielbasa cut side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes, then turn the kielbasa and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until heated through.

How to Cook Kielbasa in the Oven

• Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Spray a baking sheet or 9×13″ baking dish with cooking spray.
• Cut the kielbasa into 5 or 6 pieces.
• Slice through the center lengthwise of the kielbasa (but don’t cut all the way through), so you can split the sausage open to lay flat.
• Place each of the kielbasa cut side down on the prepared pan.

• Bake for 5 minutes, then turn the sausages. Set the oven to high broil and broil for 4-5 minutes until they are lightly crispy around the edges. Watch them closely because it is easy for food to burn under the broiler.

How to Grill Kielbasa

• Heat the grill to 400-425ºF.
• Cut the kielbasa into 5 or 6 pieces.
• Slice through the center lengthwise of the kielbasa (but don’t cut all the way through), so you can split the sausage open to lay flat.
• Place each of the kielbasa cut side down on the grill.
• Grill the first side for 5 minutes, then turn and grill the other side for 4-5 minutes.

How to Boil Kielbasa

If I boil kielbasa (which I don’t do very often), I cut the kielbasa in the shape that I desire. This is a good method for hot dog style sandwiches.

• Place the kielbasa in a pot. Cover with water.
• Bring the water to a boil over medium high heat.
• Simmer about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is heated through.
• Drain and let steam dry before placing on a bun.

Serving Ideas

• Sauerkraut and sausage go together! Serve them on a bun or simply on a plate.
• Serve on a hoagie bun with sautéed bell peppers and onions. Top with a drizzle of spaghetti sauce.
• Roast or grill vegetables alongside the kielbasa for a complete dinner.
• Kielbasa goes great with a side dish of rice or potatoes.
• Serve on a hot dog bun with all of your favorite hog dog toppings such as ketchup or mustard and onions.