Description
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is a hearty and comforting meal that combines smoky sausage, tender penne pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it requires minimal cleanup while delivering robust flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 package smoked sausage, thinly sliced (about 14 oz)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
Liquids & Seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with liquid
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta & Toppings
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Cook Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until it is browned and fragrant.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion to the sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and softened.
- Add Garlic and Bell Pepper: Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their aromas.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their liquid, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir all the ingredients together to combine the flavors evenly.
- Simmer to Cook Pasta: Bring the entire mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy sauce that binds the pasta and sausage together.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the pasta warm for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use smoked sausage with your preferred flavor profile, such as spicy or sweet, to tailor the dish to your taste.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
- The dish can be made gluten-free by substituting the penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta brand, so start checking for doneness a minute or two before 15 minutes.
