Description
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish combining smoky sausage, tender penne, and a creamy tomato sauce all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 package smoked sausage, thinly sliced (about 14 oz)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with liquid
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat to prepare for cooking the sausage and vegetables.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, to bring out its smoky flavor.
- Sauté Onion: Stir in the diced onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes, to soften and release its sweetness.
- Add Garlic and Bell Pepper: Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their liquid, chicken broth, and heavy cream to create the sauce base.
- Incorporate Pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Season: Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste, then stir everything together to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use smoked sausage of your choice; kielbasa or andouille work well.
- For a spicier dish, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes along with paprika.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the pot.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
