Introduction:
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this hearty and satisfying dish brings together the flavors of savory smoked sausage, al dente pasta, and creamy cheese—all cooked in just one pan for easy cleanup. Join us as we guide you through the steps to create this mouthwatering meal that will have your family coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 package smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta (any short shape)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add smoked sausage and onions, cooking until onions are softened and sausage is lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil.
- Add pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until pasta is cooked, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese until melted and mixed through.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjust to taste, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
- Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Serving Tips:
- Serve Hot: This dish is best served hot, straight from the pan, to ensure that the cheese is gooey and the pasta is at its most flavorful. Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy it at its peak.
- Garnish Before Serving: Before serving, garnish the Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. The parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
- Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve the Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta with garlic bread or crusty bread on the side. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the meal.
- Accompany with Salad: Pair the pasta with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or Italian dressing. The crisp, refreshing salad provides a contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of the pasta, making for a well-balanced meal.
- Serve in Individual Bowls: For a cozy and inviting presentation, serve the Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta in individual bowls or plates. This allows everyone to dig in and enjoy their portion of this delicious comfort food.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated pasta, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the dairy content in the cheese sauce, it’s not recommended to freeze Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta as the texture may become grainy or the sauce may separate upon thawing.
- Refresh Before Serving: If reheating refrigerated pasta, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help revive the sauce and prevent it from becoming too dry. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Portion Control: If preparing the dish for meal prep or leftovers, consider portioning the pasta into individual servings before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only the desired amount without having to reheat the entire batch.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of sausage in the One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta?
- Yes, you can customize the recipe by using your preferred type of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or chicken sausage. Adjust the seasoning and flavor profile accordingly to complement the chosen sausage.
- Can I make the Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta without cheese?
- While cheese adds richness and flavor to the dish, you can omit it if desired for a lighter version. Consider adding a bit of cream or broth to maintain moisture and flavor in the pasta.
- How can I make the pasta dish vegetarian-friendly?
- To make the dish vegetarian, omit the smoked sausage and consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for cooking the pasta.
- Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
- Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch of Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta. Use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the increased quantity and adjust cooking times as needed.
- Is it possible to make this pasta dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can partially prepare the dish ahead of time by cooking the sausage and chopping the vegetables. When ready to serve, simply complete the recipe by cooking the pasta and assembling the dish in the pan.
Conclusion:
With its simple preparation, minimal cleanup, and irresistible flavor, our One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its hearty combination of savory smoked sausage, tender pasta, and gooey cheese—all cooked to perfection in just one pan. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the comfort and convenience of this delicious meal!