This One Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet is a winner! It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavorful sausage, all cooked in one dish. Less clean-up means more time to enjoy!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy and delicious at the same time? I could eat this every week without getting bored—just toss in your favorite veggies for a twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Look for a good quality smoked sausage for the best flavor. If you have dietary restrictions, turkey or plant-based sausage works great as alternatives.
Onion and Garlic: These add depth to your dish. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder – about 1 teaspoon each will do the trick!
Pasta: I love using penne because the sauce gets trapped in each piece. But any pasta will work! Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or almond milk. If you need a dairy-free version, coconut milk can give a nice creaminess too!
How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta is Perfectly Cooked in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot can seem tricky, but it’s all about timing and water absorption. When you add the uncooked pasta, make sure it’s fully submerged in the broth.
- Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes; if it’s not tender yet, cover and let it simmer a couple more minutes.
This way, your pasta absorbs all those delightful flavors from the broth and sausage, making every bite delicious! Enjoy this hassle-free meal!”
One Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 3 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until they are nicely browned, about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. This step adds a depth of flavor that will enhance the dish.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out), add the chopped onion. Sauté it until it softens, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for an extra minute until everything is fragrant!
3. Add Pasta and Liquid:
Time to add the uncooked pasta! Pour in the pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is mixed well and bring it to a boil.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally for about 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking!
5. Combine and Melt the Cheese:
Once the pasta is done, stir the previously browned sausage back into the skillet. Then, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir everything until the cheese is melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright finish! Serve your One Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet immediately and enjoy every cheesy, smoky bite!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy, and smoky pasta skillet all in just one pot!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if the sausage requires it.
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta! Just keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may require slightly different cooking times, so check the package instructions for best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Just add them when you add the chicken broth and pasta to ensure they cook tender but aren’t mushy.
