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One-Pot Creamy Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta

Close-up of creamy kielbasa pasta featuring penne coated in a rich orange sauce and topped with sliced sausage and parsley.

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Make this comforting, family-friendly kielbasa pasta in a single pot for quick cooking and minimal cleanup. This recipe delivers a rich, cheesy sauce perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 ounces dry pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar-jack cheese blend
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until lightly browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Add the dry pasta to the boiling liquid. Stir well to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer according to the pasta package directions, usually 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir the cooked kielbasa back into the pot.
  6. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream until fully combined.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Do not boil after adding the cheese.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a slightly spicier dish, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
  • You can substitute the cheddar-jack cheese with mozzarella or Colby for a different flavor profile.
  • This recipe works well with other smoked sausages if kielbasa is unavailable.

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