If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that packs a flavorful punch without the hassle of multiple pots and pans, you’ve landed in the right place! This One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Just imagine: savory sausage, tender pasta, and creamy cheese, all coming together in a single pan. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this dish, but let’s highlight a few key points:
- Easy Clean-up: With everything cooked in one pan, clean-up is a breeze.
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of smoked sausage, garlic, and cheese creates a symphony of flavors.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 12 ounces of smoked sausage, sliced (Kielbasa or any smoked sausage works well)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend works beautifully)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the sausage, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and quick.
2. Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nice and browned. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen.
4. Add the Pasta and Liquids
Next, stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the chicken broth and heavy cream. Make sure the pasta is submerged in liquid. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Pasta
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture gets too thick, feel free to add a little water or more broth.
6. Stir in the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. If you want a creamier texture, you can add a splash more of cream here.
7. Season and Garnish
Finally, taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as desired. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
When it comes to serving, this dish is so hearty that it can easily stand alone. However, if you want to add a side, consider a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any remaining cheesy goodness!
For storage, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This dish will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dish for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen things up.
Helpful Tips
- Feel free to mix and match the cheese! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist.
- If you prefer vegetables, toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the simmering step.
- For added flavor, you can incorporate a splash of white wine after browning the sausage and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift any brown bits.
- Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks; you want it al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of protein instead of smoked sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based sausage would work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary for different proteins.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Cheddar is always a winner due to its melting properties and flavor. However, feel free to experiment with your favorites! A blend of cheeses adds layers of flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and then cook it all together when you’re ready to eat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if the ingredients have been refrigerated.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes can be added along with the pasta for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetables you choose.
Conclusion
In a world of busy schedules and overflowing to-do lists, finding quick and delicious meals can sometimes feel like a challenge. This One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe not only simplifies your dinner preparations but also fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and flavors. With its creamy texture, savory sausage, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your household. So why not gather your ingredients and give it a try tonight? You might just discover a new family classic!
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Savory One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in this Savory One Pan Cheesy creation Quick easy and packed with flavor this Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe delights every palate
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 calories
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 20 grams