If you’re searching for dinner inspiration that combines bold, smoky flavors with comforting pasta all in one skillet, One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is the answer. This dish brings together juicy smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, tomato-rich sauce, all bubbling together in perfect harmony. It’s not only an absolute lifesaver on busy nights, but the rich aromas and vibrant colors are guaranteed to bring everyone to the table. One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is easy to love and even easier to make—you’ll want to add it to your weeknight rotation immediately!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredient list—nothing fancy, just honest pantry staples and a few fresh touches. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver incredible flavor, the right creamy texture, and loads of visual appeal.
- Smoked Sausage: The star of the show, choose your favorite variety for maximum smoky flavor and hearty bite.
- Pasta (penne or rotini): Medium shapes like penne or rotini hold the sauce beautifully and cook evenly in one pot.
- Onion: Diced onion melts into the sauce, adding sweetness and savory depth.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic boosts the aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
- Bell Pepper: Red or yellow bell peppers add a pop of color and a gentle crunch.
- Crushed Tomatoes: These form the tangy, rich base of the sauce—choose fire-roasted for extra depth.
- Chicken Broth: Helps the pasta cook while infusing it with flavor; low-sodium is a great choice to manage saltiness.
- Heavy Cream: Stirred in at the end for a finish that’s irresistibly silky.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs delivers just the right seasoning without fuss.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential to bring everything into balance—taste as you go!
- Fresh Parsley or Basil (for garnish): A final sprinkle delivers color and a fresh, herby finish.
- Grated Parmesan: For serving—melty, nutty, and always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Smoked Sausage
Start by heating a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until the edges are browned and crisp, about 3–4 minutes. This step builds a savory foundation and lets that wonderful smoky flavor permeate the entire dish. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper
Add diced onion and chopped bell pepper to the pan. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring often until the vegetables have softened and the onions are just turning golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just until fragrant. The aroma at this stage is enough to gather a hungry audience!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Next, scatter your Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the pan, then pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine everything, scraping up any tasty brown bits from the bottom. This is where the comforting sauce for your One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta starts to take shape.
Step 4: Stir in Pasta and Simmer
Add your dry pasta straight into the pot, and return the browned sausage to the mix. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes. Give it a stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and make sure the pasta cooks evenly. The pasta will absorb all those rich, savory flavors as it cooks.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer just until heated through. Turn off the heat and add a handful of freshly grated Parmesan, stirring until it melts into the sauce. The result is a luscious, creamy coating that brings everything together in the true spirit of One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta.
How to Serve One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, a handful of fresh parsley or basil instantly lifts the dish’s color and flavor. Don’t forget a shower of extra Parmesan for that melty, savory magic. Cracked black pepper gives a little bite to the final bowl, and if you like a touch of heat, consider a pinch of red chili flakes.
Side Dishes
While One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta truly holds its own, some warm garlic bread or a crisp green salad are classic companions. Roasted broccoli or green beans would also make a lovely, simple side to round out the meal without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more dramatic effect, serve directly from your skillet at the table—family style! Or, for a cozy twist, pile portions into individual oven-safe bowls, top with mozzarella or extra Parmesan, and broil quickly for a bubbling, golden finish. This dish also makes a fun potluck option; just keep it warm in a slow cooker for guests to help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep beautifully for up to three days. Just be sure to give the pasta a quick stir before reheating since the sauce may thicken slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for longer storage. Spoon cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. It’ll stay tasty for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
For the creamiest results, reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just do it in short bursts and stir often to avoid drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of sausage?
Absolutely! Flavorful kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage all work beautifully. Just be sure to choose a smoked variety for that unmistakable depth.
What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Penne, rotini, or rigatoni all work well because their shapes catch sauce and bits of sausage. If you want to experiment, try shells or fusilli too—just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust as needed!
Can I make One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta dairy-free?
It’s easy to swap in your favorite dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives. Coconut cream and plant-based Parmesan both work beautifully, though the sauce will have a slightly different (yet still delicious) flavor.
Is it possible to add more veggies?
Absolutely—you can add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or even kale in the last few minutes of simmering for a nutrient boost. Just chop any additional veggies small so they cook quickly and blend in nicely.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just make sure your pot is large enough to comfortably handle double the ingredients, and give everything an extra stir as it simmers so the pasta cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta enough if you crave easy, bold comfort food that doubles as a crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky sausage, tender pasta, and luscious sauce will have you coming back for seconds—guaranteed. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from your dinner table!
