One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Name: One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 smoked sausages, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 8 oz short pasta (e.g., bow tie, penne); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

I still remember the first time I made a One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta dish. I had just moved into my first apartment and had only a single pot and a wooden spoon in my kitchen arsenal. I was craving something warm, comforting, and satisfying, but I didn’t want to deal with piles of dishes. So I tossed together some pasta, sausage, tomatoes, and cream—and to my surprise, it turned out incredibly delicious. That meal became my go-to whenever I needed something hearty and quick.

This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is a true weeknight hero. It’s an easy sheet pan dinner alternative that trades the oven for the stovetop and delivers quick and healthy meals with minimal effort. Perfect for beginner cooks, this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe is flavorful, fuss-free, and made with common pantry ingredients. Plus, you only need one pot, which means cleanup is a breeze.

Why This Recipe is Special

What makes this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta dish truly special is the balance of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors—all achieved with just a handful of ingredients. The smoked sausage adds richness and depth, while the tomatoes and cream create a velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or cozy nights in.

This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe is also incredibly forgiving. You can switch up the type of pasta, use different veggies, or lighten it up with a few tweaks. It’s the kind of dish that grows with you as you build your confidence in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

Smoked Sausage
This brings bold, smoky flavor and a satisfying bite to the dish. It’s pre-cooked, which makes prep faster. You can substitute it with turkey sausage, vegetarian sausage, or even cooked shredded chicken.

Pasta
Bow tie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, but you can use penne, rotini, or any short pasta you have on hand. Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrition.

Onion
Chopped onion creates a sweet, aromatic base and adds depth to the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best, but you could also use shallots for a milder flavor.

Garlic
Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a rich, savory aroma. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor.

Chicken Broth
This adds moisture and enhances the overall savory profile. You can swap it for vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube.

Diced Tomatoes
They provide acidity and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that balances the richness of the cream and sausage.

Heavy Cream
This gives the sauce its creamy texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

Cheddar Cheese
Melts into the sauce, giving it a creamy, tangy finish. You can try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a little heat.

Salt and Black Pepper
Simple but essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil, then toss in the sliced smoked sausage and chopped onions. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft and slightly golden.

Step 2
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about one minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 3
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (including their juices), and heavy cream. Stir everything together well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.

Step 4
Add the dry pasta and gently stir to make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 5
Cover the pot and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you like. This dish is best enjoyed right away, but leftovers keep well too.

Beginner Tips and Notes

If the pasta seems too dry before it finishes cooking, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Use a non-stick pot or heavy-bottomed pan to prevent sticking and burning.

Pre-chop all your ingredients before you start cooking—this makes the process smoother and less stressful.

If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more cream or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Want to make it a bit healthier? Use turkey sausage and substitute cream with a lower-fat option.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for added balance. A slice of garlic bread or a warm roll makes it extra comforting.

For leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply satisfying about making a full, flavorful meal in just one pot. This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta quick and healthy meal delivers on comfort, convenience, and taste—all while being beginner-friendly. If you’re new to cooking or just want a reliable dish that always hits the spot, give this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta easy sheet pan dinner-inspired pasta a try. I’d love to hear how it worked out for you—drop your thoughts, questions, or creative twists in the comments below. Let’s cook, learn, and enjoy the process together.

FAQ About One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of sausage for this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe?

Yes, you can substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage, kielbasa, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding.

2. What kind of pasta works best in this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta?

Short pasta like bow ties, penne, or rotini works best because it cooks evenly and holds the sauce well. Whole wheat or gluten-free versions can also be used.

3. How can I make this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta lighter or healthier?

To lighten the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of pork. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

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