One Pan Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta -

One Pan Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is an easy and delicious meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines flavorful Kielbasa sausage with creamy tomato sauce and pasta, all cooked in a single skillet for minimal cleanup. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, it’s a quick and hearty dish that your family will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This creamy smoked sausage pasta recipe is not only quick and easy to make, but it also packs a ton of flavors into one dish. The combination of classic ingredients like Kielbasa, garlic, and Italian seasonings ensures a hearty meal that’s satisfying and comforting. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Additionally, since it’s cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, making your cooking experience even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

To prepare One Pan Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

12 oz package of Kielbasa, sliced
16 oz box of pasta (any variety you prefer)
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp minced garlic
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
3 Tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Dried parsley, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Alternatively, you can use olive oil if you prefer. Allow the butter to foam and become fragrant before adding the sliced Kielbasa. You want to ensure the Kielbasa gets a nice sear to enhance its flavor.

Step 2: Add the sliced Kielbasa to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes browned. This step is crucial as it creates a rich, smokey flavor that will infuse the dish. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Once the Kielbasa is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir these ingredients together until well combined. The heavy cream will provide a rich, creamy texture while the tomato sauce and paste will add depth of flavor.

Step 5: Next, add the pasta directly to the pan. Use tongs or a wooden spoon to toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated. This step is vital for the pasta to absorb the delicious flavors from the sauce.

Step 6: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. After it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 7: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts and is well incorporated into the dish. This step adds a delectable creaminess and enhances the flavor profile.

Step 8: Finally, garnish your creamy smoked sausage pasta with dried parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal.

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

For added flavor, consider using a variety of pasta shapes. Cooked pasta shapes like penne or rotini will hold onto the sauce better than spaghetti.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
You can substitute Kielbasa with other smoked sausages or even chicken for a different flavor profile.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can use any smoked sausage or even chicken sausage if you prefer a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas to suit your dietary needs.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover One Pan Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance out the creaminess of the pasta.

Conclusion

One Pan Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish for a satisfying meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to customize it to your tastes and enjoy a hassle-free dinner tonight!