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One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

This Easy One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe combines smoky, hearty sausage with tender pasta and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting, satisfying meal packed with familiar flavors and customizable options.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Pasta

  • 12 oz smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)

Aromatics and Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

Liquids and Dairy

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes

Cheese and Seasoning

  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables: Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the sausage until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine everything well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  3. Finish the Sauce: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir over low heat until warmed through and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
  4. Add Cheese and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Brown the sausage well to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer taste.
  • Monitor the pasta closely to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
  • Add the cream gradually to control the sauce’s creaminess.
  • Season at various stages to ensure balanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, smoked sausage pasta, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, creamy sausage pasta, weeknight meal, comfort food