If you’re searching for a cozy, flavorful dinner that’s fast enough for a weeknight but special enough to feel like a treat, One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is about to become your new favorite. This dish is a hearty medley of smoky sausage, tender pasta, colorful veggies, and a wonderfully creamy, cheesy sauce—all pulled together in just 30 minutes, using only a single pan. It’s as comforting as it is easy to clean up! Paired with an irresistible depth from the smoked paprika and Italian herbs, One Pot Kielbasa Pasta delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is how these humble ingredients transform into something irresistible. Every component shines: the kielbasa brings smoky richness, veggies add a burst of color and sweetness, and a duo of cheeses finishes it all with creamy perfection.
- Olive oil: Essential for browning the kielbasa and softening the vegetables, it adds subtle richness.
- Kielbasa sausage: The star of the show—smoky, savory slices bring major flavor and heartiness.
- Onion: Adds essential sweetness and depth as it cooks down with the sausage.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a crave-worthy, aromatic kick.
- Red bell pepper: Sliced peppers provide color, crunch, and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Diced tomatoes: Their tang and juiciness create the base of the delicious, saucy mixture.
- Chicken broth: Helps cook the pasta right in the pan, infusing every bite with savory flavor.
- Penne pasta: Perfect shape for holding creamy sauce and bits of sausage; choose your favorite kind.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to layer in that classic cozy, herby taste.
- Smoked paprika: This is the secret to extra depth and subtle smokiness throughout the dish.
- Salt: Essential for coaxing out all the other flavors—don’t skip it, but taste as you go!
- Black pepper: Adds just enough gentle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Heavy cream: The key to that wonderfully rich, silky texture in the sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy pockets and stretches beautifully through each spoonful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that brings the whole dish together.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top for bright color and a fresh hint with every bite.
How to Make One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by setting a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your olive oil and let it shimmer, then toss in the sliced kielbasa. Brown the sausage rounds for about four minutes; you want gorgeous caramelization on each piece, which builds the rich base flavor for the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the kielbasa is bronzed and aromatic, stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté the mix for about three minutes, until everything softens and mingles together—you’ll know by the irresistible, savory scent in your kitchen!
Step 3: Build the Sauce and Cook the Pasta
Add the can of diced tomatoes (with the juices), chicken broth, uncooked penne, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a good stir to make sure the pasta is submerged. Bring everything up to a boil, then immediately reduce to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pasta is perfectly al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Now for the magic touch! Stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese while the pot is still over low heat. The mixture will become dreamy, melty, and creamy in seconds. Give everything a final taste—add a splash of broth if it looks too thick, or an extra pinch of salt to amplify the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. The vibrant green is as inviting as it is tasty. Serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta piping hot, and watch it disappear!
How to Serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Garnishes
The simplest finishing touch is always best: Shower your One Pot Kielbasa Pasta with a frill of chopped fresh parsley and maybe a few extra shavings of Parmesan. For a little heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes is perfect—and totally customizable for your spice lovers!
Side Dishes
This dish is satisfying on its own, but a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread turns it into a true feast. I also love pairing it with simple roasted veggies or steamed broccoli for extra texture and nutrients on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning family-style presentation, serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta straight from your skillet at the center of the table. Or, try plating it in shallow pasta bowls, twirling up the saucy noodles, and dotting the top with extra cheese and herbs for an Instagram-worthy look. Mini casseroles or ramekins make it perfect for parties and personal servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Kielbasa Pasta keeps remarkably well. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors just get cozier and more melded with time—honestly, it might taste even better the next day!
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, simply let the pasta cool fully and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—the creamy texture comes back with a little gentle heat and a splash of fresh cream or broth.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish. Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, or use short intervals in the microwave, stirring each time. Add a splash of broth or cream to help revive the creaminess if needed, and always top with a handful of fresh herbs just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course, Pasta
Absolutely! While kielbasa adds a wonderful smoky note, you can swap in smoked turkey sausage, andouille, or even a spicy chorizo for a unique twist. Just be sure to adjust the spice levels to your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free penne or another short pasta shape. Always double-check that your other ingredients, like sausages and broth, are gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk mixed with an extra bit of cheese. The sauce might be a little less rich, but it will still be absolutely delicious.
Can I make One Pot Kielbasa Pasta vegetarian?
You can, with some creativity! Swap the kielbasa for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. The overall flavor will be different but still creamy and satisfying, especially with all those herbs and cheeses.
Why is my pasta sticking to the bottom of the pot?
Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks and check that there’s enough liquid in the pot. If your heat is too high or you’ve lost too much liquid, just add a bit of extra broth and lower the heat slightly—this will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this One Pot Kielbasa Pasta a try—you’ll be amazed at just how simple it is to pull together a beautiful, crowd-pleasing meal in a single pan. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to make everyone at your table happy (and come back for seconds). Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, sausage-studded bite!
Print
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop, One Pot
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that’s easy to make in just one pot. Smoked kielbasa sausage, bell peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce make this a satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
Sauce and Pasta:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Cook kielbasa: Add kielbasa and cook until lightly browned, about 4 minutes.
- Prepare vegetables: Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, pasta, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of broth before serving.
- For a spicy kick, use hot kielbasa or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
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