One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Absolutely! Here’s a long, detailed, and flavor-packed recipe for One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta, the kind of comforting meal that delivers creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy satisfaction — all made in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

🍲 One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta (Serves 4–6)

⏰ Total Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25–30 minutes
• Total: ~40–45 minutes

📝 Ingredients

Protein & Main Flavor:

• 14 oz smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or beef sausage), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)

Pasta & Liquid:

• 12 oz dry pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or more milk if preferred)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional but adds richness)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Seasoning:

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Pinch of cayenne (optional, for heat)

Cheesy Finish:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra depth)

Garnish (optional but recommended):

• Fresh chopped parsley or basil
• Extra grated Parmesan
• A squeeze of lemon for brightness

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Slice the smoked sausage into even rounds.
• Dice the onion and bell pepper.
• Mince the garlic.
• Shred the cheeses and measure liquids ahead to streamline cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large deep skillet, sauté pan, or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
3. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Veggies & Aromatics

1. In the same pan (leave the drippings for flavor), add diced onions and red bell peppers.
2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Seasonings & Tomato Paste

1. Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using).
2. Add tomato paste and stir well to coat the veggies — this adds umami and gives the sauce a rich red hue.

Step 5: Add Pasta, Liquids & Simmer

1. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a light boil.
3. Stir in the uncooked pasta and return the sausage to the pan.
4. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover loosely, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
   
   • Pasta should be al dente and most of the liquid absorbed. If it’s too dry before pasta is done, add a splash more broth or milk.

Step 6: Stir in the Cheese

1. Once pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce, remove the pan from heat.
2. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon juice if desired.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Ladle the hot, creamy sausage pasta into bowls and top with:

• Chopped parsley or fresh basil
• Extra grated Parmesan
• A drizzle of hot sauce for kick (optional)

🧀 Variations & Customizations

🥦 Add Veggies:

• Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or arugula at the end for color and nutrients.
• Stir in frozen peas or broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

🍗 Swap the Protein:

• Use grilled chicken, turkey sausage, or vegan sausage.
• Try shrimp for a smoky-seafood twist (sear separately, then add at the end).

🌾 Make It Whole Grain or Gluten-Free:

• Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta. You may need to slightly adjust liquid and cook time.

🌶 Amp Up the Spice:

• Use andouille sausage, double the red pepper flakes, or add diced jalapeños with the onions.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

To Store:

• Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:

• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Freezing:

• This dish can freeze well for up to 2 months, though texture of the pasta may soften slightly.

Let me know if you want a cream-free, vegan, or spicy Cajun version of this dish — or if you’d like it turned into a baked casserole-style pasta!