Easy One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe for Family Dinners

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that satisfy hunger without creating mountains of dishes.

A one pot smoked sausage pasta recipe delivers exactly what busy home cooks need most.

Smoky, robust flavors mingle with tender pasta in this simple meal that comes together in less than thirty minutes.

Each bite promises a perfect blend of hearty sausage and al dente noodles nestled in a rich, creamy sauce.

Minimal ingredients and streamlined cooking techniques make this dish a true weeknight champion.

The recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Grab your largest skillet and prepare to fall in love with the easiest dinner solution in your culinary arsenal.

Smoked Sausage Pasta Ingredients

• Smoked Sausage: A flavorful meat that adds a rich, smoky taste to the pasta dish.

• Onion, Garlic: These ingredients create a deep, fragrant base that enhances the overall flavor of the recipe.

• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: These liquids combine to create a creamy, luscious sauce that coats the pasta.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provide a bright, tangy element to balance the richness of the cream and sausage.

• Bow Tie Pasta: The perfect pasta shape to catch and hold the creamy sauce.

• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey, delicious coating that adds extra richness to the dish.
• Sour Cream: An optional topping that adds a cool, tangy finish.

• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the overall flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the sausage and onions, creating a flavorful foundation for the dish.

One Pot Pasta Cooking Steps

Step 1: Sizzle Sausage and Onions

Heat a large pan over medium flame with olive oil.

Toss in sliced smoked sausage and chopped onions.

Cook until sausage turns golden brown and onions become soft and translucent, releasing their delicious aromas throughout the kitchen.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan and stir quickly.

Let it cook until its fragrant essence fills the air, being careful not to let it burn and turn bitter.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

• Chicken broth
• Diced tomatoes
• Heavy cream
• Black pepper

Mix ingredients thoroughly to create a rich, velvety sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly.

Step 4: Nestle the Pasta

Gently slide bow tie pasta into the pan, ensuring each piece is completely covered by the liquid.

This one-pot method means no separate boiling required.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

The pasta should become tender and absorb all the incredible flavors.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta.

Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a luxurious, creamy sauce that blankets every single pasta piece.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Scoop the steaming pasta into serving bowls.

For extra indulgence, add a sprinkle of additional cheese or a dollop of sour cream.

Serve immediately while hot and watch everyone dive in with excitement.

Tips for Sausage Pasta One Pot

• Slice smoked sausage evenly to ensure each piece develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior, which intensifies the meat's rich flavor and creates delightful caramelization.
• Monitor liquid absorption carefully during simmering to prevent overcooking; aim for al dente pasta that's tender yet maintains a slight bite.
• Use room temperature heavy cream and stir consistently while adding cheese to create a smooth, creamy sauce without unwanted curdling or graininess.
• Adjust black pepper quantity or add red pepper flakes for those wanting extra heat, allowing the recipe to suit different taste preferences.
• Experiment with different cheese types like sharp provolone or smoky gouda to create unique flavor profiles while maintaining the dish's creamy consistency.

Storing One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The pasta will maintain its flavor and texture best when chilled quickly.
• Transfer pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
• Pour pasta into a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Stir gently and frequently to prevent sticking. Warm for 3-5 minutes until heated completely through, maintaining creamy consistency.
• Place cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using microwave or stovetop methods.

Pairing Ideas for Smoked Sausage Pasta

• Uncork a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti to complement the rich, smoky sausage flavors.
• Toss a quick arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Serve warm, crusty French bread or garlic baguette.

Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe Swaps

• Gluten-Free Pasta Option: Swap regular bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace smoked sausage with plant-based sausage, crumbled tofu, or roasted chickpeas for a meat-free alternative that maintains protein content.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Substitute pasta with riced cauliflower or spiralized zucchini noodles to create a lower-carbohydrate meal that's keto-friendly and vegetable-packed.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative to replace cheddar cheese, making the recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy products.

FAQs

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Bow tie (farfalle) pasta is ideal, but you can also use other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells that hold sauce well and cook quickly in one pot.

• Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage provides great flavor, you can substitute with kielbasa, andouille, or even spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste preference.

• Is this recipe considered budget-friendly?

Yes, this one-pot meal is very economical. It uses simple, affordable ingredients like smoked sausage, pasta, chicken broth, and common pantry staples, making it a wallet-friendly dinner option.

• How can I make this dish slightly healthier?

Consider using low-fat chicken broth, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat pasta. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value of the meal.

One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Highlights

• One-pot magic means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, making this recipe a go-to for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without the dish-washing hassle.
• Swap out smoked sausage for chicken, add extra veggies, or experiment with different cheese varieties to make this recipe uniquely yours and keep mealtime exciting.
• Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory sausage, this pasta dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
• With just one pan and simple ingredients, you'll have a hearty, restaurant-worthy meal on the table in less than half an hour, proving that quick cooking can still be incredibly delicious.

One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy one pot smoked sausage pasta delivers comfort and convenience in a single skillet, blending smoky sausage with tender pasta and rich, velvety sauce. Savory flavors mingle effortlessly, promising a satisfying meal you can enjoy in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein and Pasta:

• 2 lbs smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz (226 g) dry whole wheat bow tie pasta

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
• 1 (12 oz / 340 g) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat with olive oil. Sear smoked sausage slices and chopped onions until sausage browns and onions soften, releasing rich, savory aromas, approximately 5-6 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and quickly stir, cooking until fragrant but not burning, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and black pepper. Thoroughly combine ingredients to create a cohesive, creamy sauce.
4. Submerge bow tie pasta into the liquid mixture, ensuring even coverage. No additional water needed for cooking.
5. Cover pan and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking. Pasta should become tender and absorb the sauce’s flavors.
6. Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a smooth, velvety sauce.
7. Plate the pasta, optionally garnishing with extra cheese or a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately while hot for maximum flavor and creaminess.

Notes

• Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising flavor.
• Keep sausage slices uniform in size to ensure even cooking and consistent taste in every bite.
• Control liquid levels by adding extra broth if pasta seems too dry during simmering, preventing potential burning or sticking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 1350 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg