Bring three cups of salted water to a boil in a large saucepan. Rinse the jasmine rice in a mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
Once the water is boiling, add in the rinsed rice; stir the rice to distribute it through the water.
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Simmer the rice for 15 minutes until tender.
(If you're making a different kind of rice, cook it according to the package directions.)
Prepare the kielbasa:
Meanwhile, slice the kielbasa on the diagonal into thin, large slices.
Heat the kielbasa slices in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the slices are sizzling and browned at the edges.
Transfer the cooked kielbasa slices to a plate and hold them aside.
Make the sauce:
Have the butter, flour, seasonings, milk, and cheese ready by the stove before starting.
Add the butter to the hot skillet, and heat it over medium heat until melted.
Quickly whisk in the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this roux continuously over medium heat for about 30 seconds. Pour in the milk and whisk to combine it with the roux.
Stir the mixture constantly as you bring it to a simmer over medium heat. As soon as the mixture begins to simmer and it just begins to thicken, remove the pan from the heat.
Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted. Then stir in the sour cream.
Serve:
Place portions of the rice and kielbasa on dinner plates, then spoon the cheddar sauce over the top. Serve them while they're hot!
Makes 6 servings.
Notes
Tips:
I use jasmine rice because it's ready in just 15 minutes. If you use a different kind, follow the package directions and factor in the time difference.