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Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta

Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta
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Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines smoky smoked kielbasa with tender pasta and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful, one-pan meal is easy to customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses and delivers rich, hearty satisfaction every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Pasta

  • 12 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream

Vegetables and Seasoning

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later to help adjust sauce consistency.
  2. Sauté the Kielbasa and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onions are translucent, releasing their aroma.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat and add cream cheese along with shredded cheddar. Slowly pour in milk or cream while stirring to melt the cheeses into a smooth, creamy sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your ideal sauce thickness.
  4. Combine and Toss: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cheesy kielbasa sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly and let the flavors meld together for a couple of minutes on low heat.
  5. Season and Serve: Finish with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture and warm, hearty flavors.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to avoid mushiness.
  • Use smoked kielbasa for the signature smoky flavor.
  • Add cheeses gradually and stir constantly to prevent clumping.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
  • Customize sauce texture by adding more cream for richness or milk for a lighter sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy kielbasa pasta, quick pasta recipe, creamy sausage pasta, kielbasa pasta, weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/cheesy-kielbasa-pasta/