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One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta

A comforting one-pan dish featuring smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini) Great for holding sauce
  • 14 oz smoked sausage Try turkey sausage for a healthier twist
  • 1 medium onion, diced For a bit of sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Because everything’s better with garlic!
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced Feel free to use any color
  • 1 cup chicken broth Or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 1 cup heavy cream For that creamy goodness—milk can be a lighter substitute
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese Cheddar melds well, but feel free to use your favorite
  • Salt and pepper To taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped For a dash of color and freshness

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and let it brown slightly for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they become tender.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked pasta, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer according to pasta package directions (usually 9-11 minutes).
  6. Once the pasta is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For variations, add spinach or kale for a nutritious boost, spice it up with red pepper flakes or jalapeños, or try different types of cheese.