Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta. Packed with smoky, savory sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, well-seasoned sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, hearty, and satisfying. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
A Flavorful One-Pot Wonder
This one-pot recipe brings together bold flavors with minimal effort. The smoked sausage infuses the dish with a deep, rich taste, while the pasta soaks up the creamy tomato-based sauce. A blend of seasonings, garlic, and cheese ties everything together for a perfectly balanced bite in every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Minimal Cleanup – Since everything cooks in one pot, you won’t have a sink full of dishes.
- Packed with Flavor – The smoky sausage, spices, and cheesy sauce create a mouthwatering combination.
- Customizable – You can switch up the ingredients to suit your taste, adding veggies or different types of pasta.
This one-pot smoked sausage pasta is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple yet delicious meal that delivers bold flavors with little effort.
Ingredients for One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
To create this creamy, smoky, and satisfying pasta dish, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully in one pot.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
This dish comes together quickly and easily in just one pot. Follow these steps for a hassle-free meal packed with rich flavors.
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Stir in the diced onion and cook for another 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine. Then, add the smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, stirring to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until melted and combined, creating a creamy and rich sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this comforting, smoky, and cheesy pasta dish.
How Long to Cook One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
The cooking time for this dish depends on the type of pasta you use. Since everything cooks in one pot, the pasta absorbs all the flavors while softening to the perfect texture. Here’s a general guide for cooking times:
- Small pasta (penne, rotini, shells) – 12-15 minutes
- Larger pasta (rigatoni, bowtie, fusilli) – 15-18 minutes
- Whole wheat pasta – May require an extra 2-3 minutes and additional broth if needed
Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the pasta is done, add a splash of broth or water as needed.
How to Store Leftovers
This dish makes fantastic leftovers and reheats beautifully. Follow these storage tips to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Tips for the Best One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
To make this dish even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a flavorful sausage – Smoked sausage adds depth, but andouille or kielbasa can bring even more boldness.
- Adjust the spice level – Add more red pepper flakes for heat or use a milder sausage if you prefer a less spicy dish.
- Experiment with cheese – Cheddar gives a rich, creamy texture, but mozzarella, Gouda, or pepper jack can add different flavor profiles.
- Make it a complete meal – Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
This one-pot smoked sausage pasta is a perfect balance of ease and flavor, making it a go-to meal for busy nights. Save this recipe to enjoy a comforting, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
