One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced into rounds; kielbasa or andouille work great)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 10 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausage:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

   • Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned (about 4–5 minutes).

   • Remove sausage and set aside (optional, or leave it in).

2. Sauté Veggies:

   • In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).

   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Add Liquids & Pasta:

   • Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes.

   • Stir in uncooked pasta, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Return sausage to the pot and stir.

4. Simmer:

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

   • Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

5. Add Cheese:

   • Once pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.

   • Adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Garnish & Serve:

   • Top with fresh parsley or green onions.

   • Serve hot!

Tips:

• For extra veggies, add spinach or chopped bell peppers when sautéing the onions.

• Swap the sausage for chicken or plant-based sausage for variations.

• Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.