One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a delicious and easy meal. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want something tasty without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. You can cook everything in one pot, which makes clean-up easier. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that come together to create a creamy, comforting meal. Whether you are cooking for your family or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to please.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is not just easy to make; it is also full of flavor. The kielbasa sausage adds a savory taste, and the creamy sauce makes every bite enjoyable. You can customize it with your favorite veggies, making it a versatile dish. It is filling and satisfying, making it a great option for lunch or dinner. The fact that you can make it in just one pot makes it even better. There’s no need to use multiple pans or dishes, keeping both cooking and cleaning simple.
HOW TO MAKE One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Making One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps, and you will have a delicious meal ready in no time.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make this dish, you will need:
- A large pot
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A measuring cup
- A cutting board
- A knife
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here is a list of the ingredients for One Pot Kielbasa Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional add-ins: spinach, peas, bell peppers, red pepper flakes (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned.
- Add garlic and onion; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a light simmer.
- Add pasta; stir, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until al dente.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy; add cheddar or mozzarella cheese and stir until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot. Optional: Top with extra grated Parmesan.
HOW TO SERVE One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
You can serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta immediately after cooking. It is best enjoyed hot. You can add extra grated cheese on top or sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also perfect for a cozy dinner.
STORAGE & FREEZING: One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store One Pot Kielbasa Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, just warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
For freezing, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some ideas:
- Pair it with a side of garlic bread.
- Serve it with a fresh salad for added crunch.
- Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright flavor contrast.
- Offer red pepper flakes for those who like a bit of heat.
VARIATIONS
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta can be easily changed based on your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheese Options: Switch out cheddar or mozzarella with your favorite cheese.
- Protein Swap: Instead of kielbasa, use sliced chicken, turkey sausage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up: Add in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy spicy food.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative, but the sauce may not be as rich.
3. How long does this dish take to make?
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook it later. Just keep the sausage and pasta separate until you are ready to cook.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
If you want to save time, here are some tips for making One Pot Kielbasa Pasta ahead of time:
- Chop the Vegetables: You can chop the onion and garlic the night before and store them in the fridge.
- Slice the Sausage: Slice the kielbasa in advance so everything is ready to go.
- Measure Ingredients: Pre-measure the chicken broth, cream, and cheeses, so they are ready to add when you cook.
- Prepare Add-Ins: If you are using vegetables, wash and chop them ahead of time.
By following these tips, you can have a freshly made meal that comes together quickly, ensuring you can enjoy One Pot Kielbasa Pasta any day of the week with ease.
Print
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
A creamy and flavorful one pot meal featuring kielbasa sausage and pasta, perfect for busy days.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional add-ins: spinach, peas, bell peppers, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned.
- Add garlic and onion; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a light simmer.
- Add pasta; stir, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until al dente.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy; add cheddar or mozzarella cheese and stir until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot. Optional: Top with extra grated Parmesan.
Notes
Great served with garlic bread or a fresh salad. Can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: One Pot Pasta, Kielbasa, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food, Quick Meals
