One Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining the deep, smoky flavors of sausage with the creamy, cheesy indulgence of pasta—all cooked together in one pot for maximum convenience and minimal cleanup. The dish begins with the rich aroma of browned smoked sausage, which is enhanced by the sweetness of sautéed onions and the boldness of garlic. These ingredients create a robust foundation for the pasta, which is simmered directly in a flavorful mix of chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the savory essence of the sausage and broth, resulting in a rich, hearty dish.
The crowning touch is the addition of cheddar cheese, which melts into the sauce, transforming it into a velvety, cheesy coating that envelops each piece of pasta and slice of sausage. The cheese adds a layer of richness and creaminess, making every bite indulgent and satisfying. The dish is garnished with fresh parsley, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the hearty flavors.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. It can be easily customized with different types of sausage or cheese to suit your taste preferences. Despite its impressive depth of flavor, this recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring only one pot and less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests at a casual gathering, One Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and seasonings (paprika, black pepper, and salt). Stir to combine. Add the pasta and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Add Cheese and Sausage: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked sausage to the pot, and stir to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy smoked sausage.
- You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for extra creaminess.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
Let me know if you’d like to adjust or add anything!
