One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that marries comfort and convenience beautifully, this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is going to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender pasta simmered right alongside flavorful smoked sausage, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese all melding together in a single pot — minimal mess with maximum satisfaction. This recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a time-saver, bringing a delightful, hearty meal to your table with ease. Ready to dive into a dish that’s as cozy as it is crave-worthy? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is straightforward and rewarding; each element plays a key role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make this dish pop. From the smoky richness of the sausage to the creamy punch of the cheese, every item is essential.
- Olive oil: Provides a delicious base and helps brown the sausage to perfection.
- Smoked sausage (about 14 oz, thinly sliced): The star protein that delivers smoky, savory goodness throughout the dish.
- Onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant and zesty kick to balance flavors.
- Bell pepper (diced): Offers a crunchy, fresh bite and lovely color contrast.
- Diced tomatoes with liquid (14.5 oz can): Provides a tangy, juicy component that keeps the pasta moist and flavorful.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Infuses the pasta with savory savoriness as it cooks.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess that binds everything together.
- Penne pasta (8 oz): Sturdy pasta that holds up well in one-pot cooking without becoming mushy.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Sprinkles a warming, smoky spice enhancing the sausage’s flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and elevating all other ingredients.
- Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts into a gooey, irresistible finish.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A bright, herbal garnish that adds freshness and visual appeal.
How to Make One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the sausage
Start by heating your olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced smoked sausage and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, about five minutes. This step not only caramelizes the sausage, creating those savory bites everyone loves, but also releases flavorful oil that enhances the whole dish.
Step 2: Soften the onions
Next, toss in the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and tender, roughly three to four minutes. This transforms the raw onion’s sharpness into a subtle sweetness, building the flavor base you’ll taste in every bite.
Step 3: Add garlic and bell pepper
Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, allowing them to cook for about two minutes until the veggies start to soften and the garlic’s aroma fills your kitchen. This combination introduces a lovely crunch and a punch of fresh flavor that complements the smoky sausage perfectly.
Step 4: Pour in the liquids and pasta
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their liquid, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Then add the uncooked penne pasta, submerging it fully in the liquid mixture. This is where the magic happens—the pasta will cook right in all those flavors, soaking up every delicious drop.
Step 5: Season and simmer
Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to blend those warming spices through the dish. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Melt in the cheese
With the pasta cooked and the sauce creamy, stir in your shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese until it melts into a smooth, luscious sauce. This last step brings a velvety richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Serve One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top is a simple yet stunning garnish that adds a pop of color and a touch of brightness to contrast the rich, smoky pasta. For an extra flair, you might also consider a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese to satisfy those cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also crowd-pleasers, perfect for sopping up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe straight from the pot in rustic bowls for a cozy, family-style vibe. For a dinner party, try plating it with a swirl of sour cream or a drizzle of pesto on top to add an unexpected twist and a burst of fresh herbaceousness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta will soak up more sauce as it rests, which makes reheated portions even more flavorful, though a splash of broth or cream can help loosen it back up.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When freezing, it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta to maintain texture upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth, cream, or water to revive the creamy consistency and prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great because of its shape and sturdiness, other pasta types like rigatoni, rotini, or even shells can be used just as effectively in this one-pot method.
Is smoked sausage necessary, or can I substitute another sausage?
Smoked sausage gives this dish its signature flavor, but you can swap it with other cooked sausages like kielbasa or even chorizo for a different twist. Just keep in mind the seasoning and fat content might alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and choose a dairy-free cheese to keep the dish creamy without dairy. The texture may vary but it will still be delicious.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
This recipe is generally mild, with paprika adding warmth but not heat. You can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer more spice.
Can I add vegetables to make it healthier?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or even kale along with the bell pepper to boost the veggie content and add extra nutrition and flavor to your One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is a welcoming hug on a plate and perfect proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or messy. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy this dish brings to your table—happy cooking and even happier eating!
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One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish combining smoky sausage, tender penne pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce all cooked in a single pot. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for weeknights, featuring sautéed smoked sausage and vegetables simmered with diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cream, finished with melted cheese and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 package smoked sausage, thinly sliced (about 14 oz)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with liquid
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
- Cook the smoked sausage: Add the thinly sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned and fragrant.
- Sauté the onion: Stir in the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to build the flavor base.
- Add garlic and bell pepper: Mix in minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for 2 more minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their liquid, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Incorporate the pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, making sure it is completely submerged in the liquid mixture for even cooking.
- Season the dish: Add paprika, salt, and pepper, then stir everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and forms a creamy sauce coating the pasta and sausage.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- Ensure the penne pasta is fully submerged while cooking for even texture and don’t overcook to avoid mushiness.
- You can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to use either cheddar or mozzarella cheese based on your preference for taste and meltiness.
- Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach can boost nutrition and texture variety.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated gently with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
