One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. This satisfying dish combines smoked sausage, creamy cheese, and tender pasta all in one pan.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this one-pot pasta is packed with flavor from sautéed kielbasa, garlic, and a touch of cream. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
What You’ll Need
Olive oil – Adds a rich base for browning the sausage and onions.
Smoked kielbasa or turkey/chicken sausage – Brings smoky, savory depth that infuses the entire dish.
Onion – Adds sweetness and complexity as it caramelizes.
Garlic – Delivers aromatic warmth that ties the flavors together.
Low-sodium chicken broth – Provides the liquid for cooking the pasta and infuses it with savory notes.
Diced tomatoes – Adds brightness and balances the creaminess with a subtle acidity.
Dry pasta – Small pasta shapes soak up all the flavorful broth.
Milk or heavy cream – Makes the sauce smooth and velvety.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
Shredded Cheddar cheese – Melts into the pasta for creamy, cheesy goodness.
Scallions – A fresh, mild onion garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
How to Make One Pot Kielbasa Pasta Step by Step
Start by sautéing the sliced kielbasa and diced onions in olive oil until golden and fragrant.
Add minced garlic for a quick boost of flavor.
Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cream, dry pasta, and seasonings. Let everything simmer until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
Stir in half the shredded cheese, then top with the rest and cover until the cheese melts beautifully.
Finish with fresh scallions and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk. Swap Cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist.
If using turkey or chicken sausage, you might want to add a pinch of smoked paprika for more depth.
Always slice the kielbasa evenly so it browns nicely and cooks through at the same rate.
How to Store Leftover One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the cream, so enjoy it fresh or within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, any smoked sausage works well. Turkey or chicken sausage is a lighter option.
What pasta shape works best?
Short shapes like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal as they hold sauce nicely.
Can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a gentle kick.
Is it okay to make this ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well within a couple of days.
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 lb smoked kielbasa or turkey/chicken sausage sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1.5 cups diced onion
- 8 oz small dry pasta
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Pour olive oil into a 4–5 quart sauté pan and set over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the kielbasa slices and diced onion until lightly browned. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook briefly until aromatic, approximately 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, milk or cream, uncooked pasta, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Withdraw the pan from heat and fold in half of the shredded Cheddar. Scatter the remaining cheese atop, then cover until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly with golden spots.
- Garnish with sliced scallions and present immediately.