One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta Recipe

Few meals are as comforting and satisfying as a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with savory sausage and seasoned to perfection. The beauty of this one-pot recipe is in its simplicity—no need for extra pans or complicated techniques, yet it delivers bold flavors that taste like you’ve been cooking all day. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta will become your go-to dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Cleanup: Only one pot is needed, making cleanup a breeze.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy nights.
3. Customizable: Perfect for adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the type of sausage.
4. Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Rich, cheesy, and full of savory goodness.

How to Make One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

• Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add the sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

• Return the cooked sausage to the pan. Sprinkle the paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the sausage and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the spices.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Pasta

• Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and ensure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

• Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the pasta to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.

Step 5: Make It Cheesy

• Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for topping.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

1. Choose the Right Sausage:
   • Smoked sausage adds a depth of flavor, but you can use spicy Andouille or mild kielbasa depending on your preference.
2. Use Short Pasta:
   • Short shapes like penne or rigatoni work best because they cook evenly in one pot without breaking.
3. Monitor the Liquid:
   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta absorbs the liquid evenly. Add a splash of broth if needed during cooking.
4. Cheese Variations:
   • Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist on the cheesy goodness.

Variations

1. Vegetable Boost:
   • Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the veggie content.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
3. Creamier Sauce:
   • Substitute cream cheese or mascarpone for the heavy cream for an extra luxurious sauce.
4. Low-Carb Option:
   • Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or zoodles for a low-carb version.

Serving Suggestions

1. Garlic Bread:
   • Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up the cheesy sauce.
2. Side Salad:
   • Pair with a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
3. Wine Pairing:
   • A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and savory flavors.

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Its hearty, cheesy sauce clings to every piece of pasta, while the savory sausage adds bursts of flavor. Best of all, it’s easy to make, with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. From busy weeknights to cozy family dinners, this dish is a guaranteed hit!

Yield: 4

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta Recipe

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Few meals are as comforting and satisfying as a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with savory sausage and seasoned to perfection. The beauty of this one-pot recipe is in its simplicity—no need for extra pans or complicated techniques, yet it delivers bold flavors that taste like you’ve been cooking all day. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta will become your go-to dish.

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Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Combine the Base Ingredients:

1. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes (with juice).
2. Add the pasta, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

4. Add the Cheese:

1. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cooked sausage.
2. Gradually add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

5. Serve and Garnish:

1. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to thicken.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Pasta Choice: Smaller pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work best for even cooking.

Broth Adjustments: Add more chicken broth if the mixture becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked.

Add-Ins: Toss in spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.