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One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal combining smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy sauce all cooked together in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers a comforting and satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup and adaptable ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sausage and Veggies: Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces and chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Start by sautéing the sausage in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat until it begins to brown and release its smoky aroma.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot and cook until they soften and turn translucent, building a fragrant base for the sauce.
  3. Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour uncooked pasta into the pot, then add the chicken broth, ensuring the broth covers the pasta by about half an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Incorporate Peppers and Cream: When the pasta is almost tender and most of the broth absorbed, stir in the chopped bell peppers and heavy cream. Cook a few more minutes until the peppers soften slightly and the sauce thickens.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Turn off the heat and mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. This enriches the sauce and finalizes the creamy flavor.

Notes

  • Use high-quality smoked sausage for best flavor.
  • Stir often to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Do not overcook pasta; aim for al dente texture.
  • Adjust cream quantity to control sauce thickness.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for better melting and taste.
  • For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
  • Vegetarian options include substituting sausage with smoked tofu or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Add greens like spinach or kale near the end for extra nutrients.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth and sausage are gluten-free for dietary needs.
  • For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, smoked sausage pasta, easy dinner, creamy pasta, quick weeknight meal, gluten-free pasta recipe, family dinner