One Pot SmokedSausagePasta

If you’re looking for a quick and easy one pot dinner recipe that’s loaded with flavor, this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is going to be your new favorite. With tender bow tie pasta, savory smoked sausage, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheddar, this meal is the perfect blend of comfort food and convenience.

The best part? This smoked sausage recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, all in one pot, which means minimal cleanup! It’s a budget-friendly dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights, feeding hungry kids, or even meal prepping for the week.

Whether you’re craving a cheesy skillet pasta or need an easy recipe that uses pantry staples, this dish delivers big flavor with little effort.

Ingredient Overview

• 3 tablespoons olive oil – base for sautéing.

• 2 pounds smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces – adds rich, smoky flavor.

• 1 medium onion, chopped – builds depth of flavor.

• 3 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and savory.

• 2 cups chicken broth – liquid base for cooking pasta.

• 12 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained – adds acidity and richness.

• 1/2 cup heavy cream – makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper – simple seasoning.

• 8 ounces dry whole wheat bow tie pasta – hearty and wholesome.

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – melty, gooey perfection.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Heat oil – In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Brown sausage – Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 3: Add onion & garlic – Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.

Step 4: Add liquids & pasta – Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), heavy cream, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 5: Cook pasta – Add uncooked bow tie pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Stir in cheese – Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.

Step 7: Serve – Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 540

• Protein: 26g

• Carbs: 42g

• Fat: 28g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 5g

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use any pasta shape? Yes, penne, rotini, or shells also work.

2. What type of smoked sausage is best? Kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite smoked variety.

3. Can I use turkey sausage? Yes, it’s a lighter option.

4. Can I substitute heavy cream? Half-and-half works for a lighter version.

5. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, store in the fridge and reheat.

6. Does it freeze well? Yes, freeze up to 3 months in airtight containers.

7. How do I reheat it? On the stove with a splash of milk or in the microwave.

8. Can I make it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.

9. Can I add vegetables? Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms are great.

10. Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, just adjust cooking time.

11. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Freshly shredded melts better.

12. What sides go with this dish? Garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

13. Can I make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

14. Is it kid-friendly? Yes, kids love cheesy pasta.

15. How long does it last in the fridge? 3–4 days.

16. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot? Yes, cook on high for 5 minutes.

17. What other meats work? Chicken or shrimp can be swapped in.

18. Can I double the recipe? Yes, perfect for large families.

19. Do I drain the tomatoes? No, use the juice for flavor.

20. Can I make it lower fat? Use turkey sausage, light cream, and reduced-fat cheese.

20 Helpful Tips

1. Slice sausage evenly for consistent cooking.

2. Sear sausage for extra flavor.

3. Don’t overcook pasta—keep it al dente.

4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Use whole wheat pasta for fiber.

6. Fresh garlic tastes better than jarred.

7. Add paprika for smoky flavor.

8. Use sharp cheddar for boldness.

9. Sprinkle Parmesan on top before serving.

10. Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

11. Use low-sodium broth to control salt.

12. Add cream cheese for extra richness.

13. Make it spicy with Cajun seasoning.

14. Swap bow ties for shells if feeding kids.

15. Garnish with green onions for color.

16. Serve with crusty bread to soak up sauce.

17. Let pasta rest 5 minutes before serving—it thickens.

18. Use cast iron for rustic presentation.

19. Double cheese for ultra-creamy pasta.

20. Always shred cheese from a block for best melt.

10 Storage Tips

1. Store in airtight container.

2. Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.

3. Freeze for up to 3 months.

4. Portion before freezing for quick meals.

5. Label containers with date.

6. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

7. Use microwave-safe containers for convenience.

8. Add fresh cheese after reheating for texture.

9. Don’t freeze with garnishes—add after reheating.

10. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

20 Recipe Secrets

1. Use andouille sausage for a Cajun kick.

2. Stir in spinach before serving for nutrients.

3. Add corn for sweetness.

4. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for smoky depth.

5. Stir in ranch seasoning for zest.

6. Add bacon for extra smokiness.

7. Swap cheddar for mozzarella and Parmesan.

8. Mix in jalapeños for spice.

9. Add Cajun seasoning for bold flavor.

10. Top with panko breadcrumbs for crunch.

11. Stir in cream cheese for extra richness.

12. Garnish with lime for brightness.

13. Add a splash of white wine to broth.

14. Stir in roasted red peppers.

15. Top with fresh basil for Italian twist.

16. Use Monterey Jack for melty texture.

17. Add chili powder for Tex-Mex vibes.

18. Use smoked paprika for depth.

19. Make mini portions for meal prep.

20. Always serve hot for best cheesy pull.

Hashtags for Social Media

#OnePotPasta #SmokedSausageRecipes #EasyDinnerIdeas #CreamyPastaRecipe #WeeknightMeals #FamilyDinnerRecipes #BudgetFriendlyMeals #ComfortFoodRecipes #SkilletPasta #CheesyPasta