Why Make This Recipe
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a delightful and easy meal that brings comfort food to your table in no time. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines hearty kielbasa sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
How to Make One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional add-ins: spinach, peas, bell peppers, red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes until it is browned.
- Add garlic and onion to the pot; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a light simmer.
- Add the pasta, stir well, cover the pot, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Then, add the cheddar or mozzarella cheese and stir until fully melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. If desired, top with extra grated Parmesan.
How to Serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta in large bowls. You can garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Tips to Make One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
- To enhance the dish, you can add spinach or peas for some extra veggies.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to prevent it from sticking.
Variation
You can customize One Pot Kielbasa Pasta by using different types of pasta or sausages. Turkey kielbasa or chicken sausage can be great lighter options. You can also swap heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to use any sausage you prefer, such as turkey, chicken, or even vegan sausage.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free cream and cheese substitute to make this dish dairy-free.
Can I prepare this in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and then follow the cooking steps when you are ready to eat.
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes until it is browned.
- Add garlic and onion to the pot; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a light simmer.
- Add the pasta, stir well, cover the pot, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Then, add the cheddar or mozzarella cheese and stir until fully melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. If desired, top with extra grated Parmesan.