This Easy One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that brings comfort to your dinner table. You cook everything in one pot, so there’s less mess to clean up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you can’t find kielbasa, you can substitute with other smoked sausages like andouille or turkey sausage.
Pasta: I love using penne for its hearty shape, but you can use rotini or shells too. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta are good swaps if you need them.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk if you’re avoiding dairy. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: While I prefer sharp cheddar for extra flavor, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese option if needed.
How Do You Ensure the Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
The key to cooking pasta in one pot is monitoring it closely. Make sure the pasta has enough liquid to cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking.
- When your pasta is nearly tender, keep an eye on the sauce. If it looks too thick, add a little water or broth to loosen it up.
- Taste the pasta a minute or two before the cooking time is up. This way, you’ll know the perfect doneness. It should be al dente—cooked, but still firm to the bite!
Easy One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one pot kielbasa pasta recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a super quick meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Kielbasa:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced kielbasa. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and browned—about 5 minutes. This step adds amazing flavor!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them until the veggies are softened, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!
3. Combine the Liquids:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring to combine everything. This will create a creamy base for your pasta.
4. Add the Pasta:
Time to add the uncooked pasta! Make sure it’s all submerged in the liquid to cook evenly. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
5. Cook Until Tender:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened—this will take about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over!
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Once your pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a hint of smokiness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious one pot kielbasa pasta with chopped fresh parsley. Serve it warm, and enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with other smoked sausages like andouille, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage based on your preference!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or evaporated milk work well in this recipe. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk or almond milk can be used, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the kielbasa for vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether and add more vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach to keep it hearty and satisfying.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
