Smoked sausage pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s quick and easy to make. This simple recipe combines a creamy, cheesy sauce with savory smoked sausage and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a satisfying one-pot meal the whole family will enjoy.
Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and cook the sliced smoked sausage until it’s lightly browned.
Stir in the onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, seasonings, and uncooked pasta. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is mostly covered by the sauce. If needed, add an extra ½ cup of broth for more liquid.
Bring the pasta mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 12-16 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your preferred tenderness. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
When the pasta is done, take the pot off the heat. Add the shredded cheese and mix gently with a wooden spoon until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve as is or pair with a side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy!
Notes
You can use different types of pasta like rotini, macaroni, ziti, rigatoni, fusilli, or even egg noodles for this recipe.
Use your favorite smoked sausage such as Cajun, kielbasa or andouille.
You can also substitute the sausage with bite-sized pieces of chicken or ground beef. Just make sure to cook the meat first before adding the broth, cream, and pasta.
Switch up the cheese with one of your favorites, or try a combination. Mozzarella, fontina, provolone, parmesan, or ricotta all make great choices.
For the best results, shred the cheese yourself if possible, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
You can add or swap in other ingredients to customize the dish. Try mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and texture!