This creamy sausage pasta one-pot meal is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s packed with flavorful sausage and cheesy goodness, all mixed with pasta in one dish—who loves easy cleanup? 🙋♀️
I enjoy how quickly this comes together! Just cook the sausage, add in your pasta and sauce, and let it simmer. In less than 30 minutes, you have a delicious dinner ready to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish! You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well, too.
Pasta: I love using penne for its bite, but you can use other types like rigatoni or rotini. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or lentil pasta—it holds up well in this recipe!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce may be less creamy. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free option too!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that nice stretch, while Parmesan adds depth. If you want something different, try using fontina or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
How Can You Make Sure Your Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pasta just right in a one-pot dish can be tricky! Here’s how to make sure it comes out perfectly:
- Use a large pot to give the pasta room to cook evenly.
- Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is key since we’re cooking everything together.
- Check for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions recommend, since the pasta will continue to cook in the heat even after removing it from the stove.
These steps help ensure your pasta is al dente and perfectly creamy with that delicious sauce.
Creamy Sausage Pasta One-Pot Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini works well)
- 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pot creamy sausage pasta takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. So, you can have a hearty meal ready in about 25-30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You want to see no pink left in the sausage.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it becomes soft, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This part will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Liquids:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where the creamy sauce starts to come together!
4. Incorporate the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. It’s important to keep an eye on it to avoid any spills!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally, so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom and cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s done when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Mix in the Cheeses:
It’s time for the best part! Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until they melt and make the dish creamy and cheesy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Your one-pot creamy sausage pasta is ready! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy your comforting and tasty meal!
Bon appétit! 🌟
FAQ for Creamy Sausage Pasta One-Pot Meal
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Sausage Instead?
Absolutely! Using turkey or chicken sausage is a great way to lighten up the dish. Just make sure to choose a flavorful variety, as it will impact the overall taste of the pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk, but be mindful of the flavor it adds!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, definitely! Feel free to add some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms when you sauté the onion and garlic. This not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional content of your pasta!
