Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe for Dinner

Posted on July 26, 2025

Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta - featured image

Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of savory smoked sausage mingling with melted cheese and perfectly cooked pasta wafting through the air. Sounds delightful, right? That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta recipe! I’ll never forget the first time I made this dish. It was a busy weeknight, and I wanted something delicious without a mountain of dishes to wash afterward. Trust me, this recipe is a lifesaver!

This hearty meal is ideal for families, busy nights, or even when you’re just craving comfort food. The best part? You cook everything in one pan! You’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones. This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it also provides a satisfying texture that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Ready to dive into the cheesy goodness? Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me share why this Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta recipe has become a staple in my kitchen:

Quick & Easy: You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or those last-minute cravings.
Simple Ingredients: Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so no fancy grocery trips are needed!
Perfect for Family Dinners: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves cheesy pasta!
One Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to relax after dinner.
Incredibly Delicious: The combination of smoky sausage and creamy cheese will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The slight smokiness from the sausage blends perfectly with the creamy cheese, making this a dish that you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. You can easily adapt it for different tastes and dietary needs, making it versatile and fun to make!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz (225 g) pasta (your choice, I recommend penne or rotini for a great texture)
14 oz (400 g) smoked sausage, sliced (choose your favorite brand; I love using Kielbasa for its rich flavor)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the sausage)
1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained (adds moisture and flavor)
2 cups (500 ml) chicken broth (you can use low-sodium for a healthier option)
1 cup (about 100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella is ideal for that gooey goodness)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season your dish!)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional but recommended for a pop of color)

These ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize. If you want to kick it up a notch, consider adding in some bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different type of cheese to switch things up!

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:

Large skillet or sauté pan: A 12-inch pan works best to cook everything evenly.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing the ingredients together.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you add the right amounts of everything!
Knife and cutting board: For chopping the sausage, onion, and garlic.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven can work too! Just make sure whatever you’re using has a lid, as it helps to cook the pasta perfectly.

Preparation Method

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta:

Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the sliced smoked sausage. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until it’s nicely browned.
Add the onion and garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Combine the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and the chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Incorporate the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer: Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the liquid has reduced.
Add the cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!

Feel free to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. If it’s not quite done, just let it cook a couple more minutes, adding a splash more broth if necessary. You want everything to be creamy and flavorful!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to help you perfect your Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta:

Don’t skip the browning: Sautéing the sausage until it’s golden adds layers of flavor.
Mix it up: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausages or cheeses to suit your taste buds!
Keep it low and slow: Cooking on low heat helps the pasta absorb the flavors better.
Watch the liquid: If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, you can always add a bit more broth to keep it creamy.
Don’t overcook: Make sure to check the pasta a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid mushy noodles.

These little techniques can make a big difference in achieving that perfect, cheesy dish!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is super adaptable! Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack for a bit of heat or a blend of cheeses for more depth of flavor.
One-Pot Wonder: If you prefer a lighter dish, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta!

These variations can help you cater to different dietary preferences and keep things exciting in the kitchen!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

To serve, dish out your Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta in bowls, and don’t be shy with the cheese! A little extra sprinkle on top can make it even more indulgent. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.

For storage, let leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta recipe not only satisfies cravings but also provides some nutritional benefits:

Protein: The sausage and cheese offer a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Vitamins: The addition of tomatoes and onions can contribute to your daily vitamin intake.
Carbs for Energy: Pasta provides a quick source of energy, making this a great meal after a workout.

Of course, if you have specific dietary needs, consider adjusting the ingredients accordingly. It’s a flexible recipe that can fit a variety of diets!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Easy One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience waiting to happen. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and mouthwatering flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t hesitate to customize it to fit your taste—after all, cooking is all about making it your own!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you tried this recipe? Do you have any variations you’d like to share? Leave a comment below, and let’s chat! Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Allow leftovers to cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or your favorite veggies for a delicious vegetarian option.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist!

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