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    Home » Blog

    Kielbasa Sausage and Peppers with Cheesy Grits

    Published: Aug 18, 2025 · Modified: Jul 27, 2026 by Leanna Myers · This post contains affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    This smoky Kielbasa sausage and peppers with cheesy grits is a cozy weeknight favorite that only takes 30 minutes to whip together. It's simple, budget-friendly comfort food the whole family will love.

    Kielbasa Sausage and Peppers served with Cheesy Grits in a blue bowl this Recipe!

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • It's ready in under 30 minutes.
    • It's family-friendly and no one can resist the cheesy grits!
    • It's budget-friendly made with inexpensive, practical ingredients.

    Freezer tip: I like to keep a package of kielbasa polish sausage in the freezer because it take no time to thaw! For the quick defrosting method, submerge the frozen packaged sausage it in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minute until thawed. I've found it only takes 15-20 minutes.

    skillet filled will colorful bell peppers and online with polish sausage

    Ingredients

    For the sausage, onions & peppers:

    • 1 (14 oz) package kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
    • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
    • 2-3 bell peppers (green pepper or any color), sliced
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt & pepper, to taste
    • Olive oil
    • 2 cloves minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, optional

    For the cheesy grits:

    • 4 cups water (or broth)
    • 1 cup quick-cooking grits
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • Salt & pepper, to taste
    • dash of cayenne pepper, optional
    3 bell peppers, an onion, sausage, cheddar cheese and grits

    Instructions

    1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes), then remove from pan.
    3. Toss in the onions and peppers, and sauté until softened and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper (and optional garlic).
    4. In a saucepan, bring the water to a simmer.
    5. Whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Stir often until thickened, about 5 minutes.
    6. Stir in butter, milk, and cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    7. Spoon a generous helping of cheesy grits into bowls and top with the sausage, peppers, and onions.
    sausage slices being sautéed in olive oil
    slice peppers and onions in a hot skillet
    sausage and vegetables being mixed together
    cheesy grits being stirred

    Tips for Success

    • Stir the grits frequently so they don't clump.
    • Use a mix of colorful peppers for the prettiest presentation.
    • Double the sausage and pepper mix-it reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
    blue bowl of kielbasa with onions and peppers
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    Kielbasa Sausage and Peppers with Cheesy Grits


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    • Author: The Hungry Waitress
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: 4 1x
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    Description

    This smoky Kielbasa sausage and peppers with cheesy grits is a cozy weeknight favorite that only takes 30 minutes to whip together.


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    For the sausage, onions & peppers:
    • 1 (14 oz) package kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
    • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
    • 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt & pepper, to taste
    • Olive oil
    • 2 cloves minced garlic, optional
    For the cheesy grits:
    • 4 cups water (or broth)
    • 1 cup quick-cooking grits
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • Salt & pepper, to taste
    • dash of cayenne pepper, optional

    Instructions

    1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes), then remove from pan.
    3. Toss in the onions and peppers, and sauté until softened and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper (and optional garlic).
    4. In a saucepan, bring the water to a simmer.
    5. Whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Stir often until thickened, about 5 minutes.
    6. Stir in butter, milk, and cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    7. Spoon a generous helping of cheesy grits into bowls and top with the sausage, peppers, and onions.

    Equipment

    Image of All Purpose Pan with Lid, 3 Quart

    All Purpose Pan with Lid, 3 Quart

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    Notes

    Stir the grits frequently so they don't clump.

    Use a mix of colorful peppers for the prettiest presentation.

    Double the sausage and pepper mix-it reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: Dinner
    • Method: One Pot
    • Cuisine: American

    Variations & Substitutions

    • Swap kielbasa for spicy andouille sausage for a Cajun kick.
    • Use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
    • Substitute polenta for grits if that's what you have on hand.
    • Add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra veggies.

    What to Serve With Sausage and Peppers

    A crisp green salad would be a refreshing side if you'd like a healthier option. Warm cornbread or biscuits would also be delicious. You could also serve roasted vegetables.

    Can I use instant grits?

    Yes! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

    How do I store leftovers?

    Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to loosen the grits.

    Can I freeze this dish?

    You can freeze the sausage and pepper mixture, but grits don't freeze well.

    polish sausage with bell peppers and onions

    This Kielbasa Sausage and Peppers with Cheesy Grits has everything you need for an easy weeknight dinner! Plus it's a recipe that brings everyone to the table without stressing you out in the kitchen.

    If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments or tag me on Pinterest! I'd love to see your version.

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    A post shared by Leanna | The Hungry Waitress (@hungrywaitress)

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    Straight forward recipes using everyday ingredients

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    Leanna here, and I love cooking and sharing delicious recipes. My hope is to inspire you to get in the kitchen and cook something amazing today.

    Want to work together? Shoot me an email at hungrywaitress@gmail.com

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