One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
This creamy, cheesy pasta dish brings smoky, savory depth in every bite, all made in just one pot for easy cleanup.
What You’ll Need for One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Smoked sausage – Provides a hearty, savory base with rich, smoky flavor that infuses the entire dish.
Olive oil – Used to sauté the sausage and onions, adding richness and helping develop flavor.
Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to balance the smoky sausage.
Garlic – Brings bold, pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
Chicken broth – Forms the flavorful liquid base that cooks the pasta and builds depth.
Diced tomatoes – Add acidity and texture, cutting through the creaminess of the dish.
Heavy cream – Gives the sauce its velvety texture and luxurious richness.
Pepper – Adds mild heat and seasoning to balance the creamy and smoky components.
Whole wheat bow tie pasta – Provides structure and a slight nuttiness, holding up well to the creamy sauce.
Cheddar cheese – Melts into the dish for a sharp, tangy finish and irresistible cheesiness.
How to Make This Creamy One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Sauté smoked sausage with onion in olive oil until golden and aromatic.
Stir in garlic, then pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cream, and pepper.
Once combined, add the bow tie pasta, making sure it’s submerged. Cover and simmer until the pasta is tender.
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Tips to Elevate Your One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
For extra richness, use a smoked gouda blend with cheddar. If you prefer a spicier dish, use andouille or kielbasa and add red pepper flakes.
Substitute whole wheat pasta with penne or rotini for a twist.
For added vegetables, stir in spinach or peas during the last five minutes of cooking.
Storing Leftovers of One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream and cheese content, which may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work well. Adjust the simmer time based on the pasta’s cooking time.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently. Smoked sausage is generally mild, but you can use a spicy version or add crushed red pepper for heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. Stir in a bit of broth to keep the sauce creamy.
What can I serve with it?
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 12 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz dry whole wheat bow tie pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 lb smoked sausage sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions along with the sliced smoked sausage until the onions are translucent and the sausage is lightly browned.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and stir briefly until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to combine all elements.
- Mix in the dry pasta, ensuring each piece is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pan and allow it to simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it has melted completely into the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or sour cream if desired.