As the sun begins to set and the grill warms up, the thought of vibrant Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers filling the air is irresistible. One evening, with friends gathering in my backyard, I wanted to serve something that effortlessly combined comfort and flavor. These skewers not only deliver that satisfying charred taste we all crave on a summer night but also bring the nostalgia of family cookouts and hearty meals right to your table.
I love how the juicy kielbasa pairs perfectly with tender baby potatoes, fresh corn, and zucchini, all drizzled with a decadent cowboy butter that takes everything up a notch. It’s a dish that sparks joy, encourages laughter, and works like a charm when you’re ready to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a showstopper at the next gathering, these skewers are here to turn ordinary evenings into delicious celebrations. Grab your skewers, and let’s get cooking!
Why will you love Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers?
Flavor Explosion: The mouthwatering combination of buttery kielbasa and fresh vegetables creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Quick and Easy: With only 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip these up for a last-minute gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cookouts, these skewers bring everyone together for some fun in the sun!
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the veggies or add your favorite proteins—these skewers adapt to your cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Every bite wrapped in savory cowboy butter achieves that delightful char your guests will adore.
Get ready to impress and elevate your grilling game with this irresistible dish!
Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers Ingredients
For the Skewers
• Baby potatoes – 1 pound, these small spuds are tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for grilling.
• Corn – 5 ears, husked and cut into 1-inch rounds; fresh corn adds a sweet crunch to every bite.
• Kielbasa – 1 ring (13.9 ounces), cut into ½-inch rounds; this smoky sausage brings a robust flavor that complements the veggies.
• Zucchini – 1-2 medium, sliced into ½-inch rounds; it absorbs the lovely flavors while providing a vibrant green to the skewers.
For Seasoning
• Extra virgin olive oil – 1 tablespoon, used to keep the skewers moist and help the seasoning adhere.
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances the natural flavors of each ingredient.
• Freshly ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon; adds a hint of earthiness to uplift the dish.
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon; a must for that aromatic kick that brings all the flavors together.
• Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon; a little heat goes a long way in making your cowboy butter kielbasa and potato skewers unforgettable!
For Serving
• Cowboy butter – 1 recipe; this rich, flavorful butter takes your skewers to the next level.
• Wooden or metal skewers – 11 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes, or metal skewers; they’re essential for grilling up these delicious bites.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers
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Boil the Vegetables: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the baby potatoes and corn rounds, and boil for 6-7 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
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Ice Bath Them: Immediately transfer the boiled potatoes and corn to a large bowl filled with ice water. This stops the cooking process to ensure they don’t get mushy. Let them cool completely before draining and patting dry.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, corn, kielbasa, and zucchini. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne. Toss gently so everything gets a lovely coating.
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Assemble the Skewers: Thread the potatoes, corn, kielbasa, and zucchini onto the skewers, alternating as you go. Leave space at each end for easy handling. Set the skewers aside while you preheat the grill.
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Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking before adding the skewers.
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Grill to Perfection: Place the skewers on the grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes until the kielbasa is beautifully marked, and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Move to indirect heat if necessary.
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Heat the Cowboy Butter: While the skewers are grilling, heat the cowboy butter in the microwave in 30-second increments. Stir in between heating sessions until it’s melted and warm.
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Brush and Serve: Generously brush the warm cowboy butter over the skewers right off the grill. Serve immediately with extra cowboy butter on the side for dipping.
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for added freshness and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers?
As your skewers sizzle on the grill, imagine a robust platter of sides that amplify the outdoor feast.
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Garlic Bread: This crispy loaf is perfect for soaking up the delicious cowboy butter drizzled over the skewers.
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Grilled Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil, seasonal veggies bring smoky flavors that enhance the skewers’ fresh elements. Their slight charring complements the savoriness of kielbasa wonderfully.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing balance to the hearty skewers. The crisp textures and zesty flavor create a delightful contrast that every bite craves.
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Corn Salad: A chilled corn salad, featuring diced tomatoes and avocado, echoes the grilled corn on the skewers while providing a vibrant splash of color.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy watermelon, pineapple, and berries offer a light, sweet finish to your meal, cleansing the palate after savory bites.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks are ideal for quenching your thirst on warm evenings and pair perfectly with the rich flavors of your cowboy butter kielbasa and potato skewers.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, a warm cookie treat rounds off the meal, bringing back childhood memories with every delightful bite.
How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ready for quick reheating!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but uncooked skewers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 2 months.
Reheating: If reheating, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then grill or bake until heated through and slightly crispy—avoid sogginess for the best enjoyability in your cowboy butter kielbasa and potato skewers.
Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy the skewers hot off the grill, but if you’re transporting them, keep them in a cooler for up to 2 hours.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers
Prep Ahead: You can pre-boil the potatoes and corn earlier in the day, saving you time during dinner prep.
Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure not to pack the skewers too tightly; this allows for even cooking and prevents steaming.
Monitor Heat: Keep an eye on your grill temperature. Too hot can burn the outside before the insides are cooked; medium-high is ideal.
Baste Generously: Brush the cowboy butter on right off the grill for maximum flavor absorption into the skewers.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and seasonal veggies elevate the dish, giving each bite a flavorful freshness in your cowboy butter kielbasa and potato skewers.
Make Ahead Options
These Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the skewers by assembling them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe steps to boil the potatoes and corn, cool them, and assemble the skewers; then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to grill, let the skewers sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking. Don’t forget to brush them with cowboy butter just before serving for that mouthwatering finish. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality skewers with minimal effort!
Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these skewers to your taste buds with these enjoyable twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños to the skewers for a thrilling burst of heat. Your taste buds will thank you for this exciting enhancement.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before grilling for a fragrant twist that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
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Sweet Bonus: Incorporate chunks of bell peppers or pineapple for a hint of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with savory kielbasa. The sweetness brightens every bite!
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Veggie Swap: Replace zucchini with bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a different texture and burst of color. Each veggie brings its own unique flair to the dish.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the kielbasa with marinated tempeh or plant-based sausage for a delightful vegetarian version that still feels hearty.
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Seasoning Boost: Experiment by using smoked paprika or lemon zest to enhance the aromatic allure of your skewers. These subtle additions can transform the flavor experience remarkably.
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Cheesy Delight: Add a sprinkle of feta or shredded mozzarella right before grilling for a melty, gooey addition that makes the skewers even more irresistible.
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Marinade Magic: Marinate the veggies in balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of richness and tang before threading them on the skewers—it’s an excellent way to deepen the taste.
Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my skewers?
Absolutely! When selecting baby potatoes, look for firm ones without dark spots or wrinkles. For corn, choose ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. Zucchini should be glossy and slightly firm, indicating freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. This keeps the flavors vibrant for your next meal!
Can I freeze the skewers? If so, how?
Yes, you can! Wrap the assembled but uncooked skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Grill or bake until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy rather than soggy.
What should I do if my vegetables are overcooked?
If your veggies end up mushy, try reducing the boiling time to 5 minutes next time, and remember to use the ice bath right away. Overcooked zucchini can also be a sign of grilling too long; turn them on and off the grill more frequently to achieve that perfect char while keeping their crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If serving to guests with allergies, remember that kielbasa can contain dairy or gluten. Always check the label. For a vegetarian option, you could substitute the kielbasa with marinated tofu or tempeh for a delightful twist, and use vegan butter instead of cowboy butter.
Can I use different vegetables or meats?
Very much so! Feel free to switch up the veggies based on your preference, adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with proteins like chicken or shrimp. Just ensure they have similar cooking times for perfect skewers every time!
Savor Summer with Cowboy Butter Kielbasa and Potato Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the baby potatoes and corn rounds, and boil for 6-7 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Immediately transfer the boiled potatoes and corn to a large bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool completely before draining and patting dry.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, corn, kielbasa, and zucchini. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne. Toss gently.
- Thread the potatoes, corn, kielbasa, and zucchini onto the skewers, alternating as you go.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them.
- Place the skewers on the grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes until the kielbasa is beautifully marked, and the vegetables are tender.
- While the skewers are grilling, heat the cowboy butter in the microwave in 30-second increments until it's melted and warm.
- Generously brush the warm cowboy butter over the skewers right off the grill. Serve immediately with extra cowboy butter on the side.