Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta for a Comforting One-Pan Dinner
Looking for a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner that the whole family will love? Creamy smoked sausage pasta is a rich, satisfying meal that comes together in just one pan. With savory slices of smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a velvety cream sauce, this dish is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.
Ideal for busy evenings, this recipe takes minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but versatile enough to pair with a salad or veggie side for a complete meal.
Ingredients
This recipe serves four people.
- Eight ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- Two tablespoons olive oil or butter
- One small onion, diced
- Two garlic cloves, minced
- Two cups chicken broth
- One cup heavy cream
- Eight ounces penne or rotini pasta
- One and one quarter cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- One teaspoon paprika
- Half teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for four to five minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for two to three minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for one minute more, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for ten to twelve minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Sausage
- Add the shredded cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pan and mix well to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
- Enjoy immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad and vinaigrette for contrast.
- Serve with garlic bread or a warm dinner roll to soak up extra sauce.
- For added color and nutrients, stir in spinach or peas during the final few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 640 |
| Protein | 23 grams |
| Total Fat | 42 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 20 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 980 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Smoked sausage adds bold, savory flavor and protein with minimal prep.
- Cheese and cream create a rich, comforting sauce that satisfies quickly.
- Pasta provides energy-supporting carbohydrates to round out the dish.
- Easily adaptable with vegetables or lower-fat dairy alternatives.
Tips for Best Results
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese to one cup.
- Choose turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Stir frequently while simmering the pasta to prevent sticking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Variations to Try
- Add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and fiber.
- Use shell pasta or bowties instead of penne.
- Spice it up with crushed red pepper or Cajun seasoning.
- Swap mozzarella for Parmesan or gouda for a different cheese profile.
Creamy smoked sausage pasta is the kind of quick and comforting dinner you’ll return to again and again. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite sides, it’s a foolproof recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly special.
