Name: One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage – Mild or spicy, depending on your preference.; 1 medium onion, diced – Enhances flavor.; 3 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for depth of taste.; 1 lb (450g) penne pasta – Or substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli.; 3 cups (710ml) chicken broth – Adds flavor while cooking the pasta.; 1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) diced tomatoes – Provides a rich, tangy base.; 1 tbsp tomato paste – Helps thicken the sauce.; 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese – For ultimate gooeyness.; ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and nuttiness.; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme.; Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential seasonings.; Optional Add-Ins:; ½ tsp red pepper flakes – For a little heat.; 2 cups fresh spinach – Adds extra nutrients.; 1 cup cherry tomatoes – Enhances freshness.

If you’re in search of a quick and delightful meal that promises to satisfy your hunger and please your taste buds, this One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is a game-changer. A beloved recipe for busy weeknights, it combines the rich flavors of savory Italian sausage, creamy melted cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta—all conjured up in just a single pan! This dish not only minimizes cleanup but also ensures that every bite is a flavor explosion. Imagine serving a warm, comforting plate of pasta bursting with cheesy goodness in under 30 minutes; it’s the kind of meal that makes you want to cook more often.

What truly sets this dish apart is its adaptability. You can easily modify it to suit your family’s preferences, swapping the Italian sausage for something leaner or even plant-based, adding your favorite pasta shape, or sneaking in more veggies to boost the nutrition. The engagement with this One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta recipe goes well beyond mere sustenance—it transforms into a heartfelt experience as you gather around the table to share laughter and stories over a delicious meal. So, if you’re ready to dive into this culinary adventure, keep reading to discover how to create this fast and fantastic dinner that will soon become a staple in your household.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
Customizable: Feel free to swap the protein, add more vegetables, or try different pasta shapes to suit your preferences.
Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist this decadent pasta dish!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making this delectable One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta, it’s crucial to prep your workspace and gather your tools. Begin by clearing off your counters and ensuring your utensils and ingredients are at hand. All you need is a large skillet or a Dutch oven for cooking. Consider using a wooden spoon for stirring, which won’t scratch your pot, and measuring cups for accuracy in ingredient quantities. Having everything organized and ready to go helps the cooking process flow smoothly.

The setup is vital to ensure that the cooking experience isn’t just efficient but also enjoyable. With everything prepped, you’ll minimize stress as you follow through the various steps of assembling this delightful dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage – Mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
1 medium onion, diced – Enhances flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for depth of taste.
1 lb (450g) penne pasta – Or substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli.
3 cups (710ml) chicken broth – Adds flavor while cooking the pasta.
1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) diced tomatoes – Provides a rich, tangy base.
1 tbsp tomato paste – Helps thicken the sauce.
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese – For ultimate gooeyness.
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and nuttiness.
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential seasonings.
Optional Add-Ins:
½ tsp red pepper flakes – For a little heat.
2 cups fresh spinach – Adds extra nutrients.
1 cup cherry tomatoes – Enhances freshness.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Start by warming a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned, which should take about five minutes. The idea is to develop a beautiful caramelization, allowing those savory flavors to ignite as the fat renders.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned sausage. Cook them together until the onion becomes translucent—about 2 minutes—reveling in the delightful aroma that’s beginning to fill your kitchen. This step is critical as it builds a solid flavor base for your pasta dish.

Step 3: Incorporate the Pasta and Liquids

It’s time to bring in the stars of the show: the pasta and liquids. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and the tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined, then bring this mixture to a gentle boil. The bubbling broth will start to cook the pasta, absorbing its flavors as it cooks.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. During this time, the pasta will absorb the broth and the tomatoes will meld into a rich sauce. Check for doneness; you want the pasta to be al dente.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

With the pasta perfectly cooked, it’s time to get cheesy! Add in your shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt perfectly into the hot pasta, creating a luscious creamy consistency. Ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Adjust your dish by adding salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste. If you have any fresh herbs like basil or parsley, sprinkle some on top for a beautiful presentation. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones!

Variations

Protein: Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or mushrooms.
Vegetables: Incorporate veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to increase nutritional value.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning blends for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
If the pasta absorbs too much liquid and seems dry, add a little more chicken broth until the desired consistency is achieved.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with freshly baked garlic bread to enjoy the delicious creamy sauce.

Tips

Always taste the broth before adding salt, as the sausage and cheese will contribute their own saltiness.
For added flavor, try browning the sausage a little longer or use smoked sausage for a more robust taste.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: Varies based on sausage and broth used

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just cook the sausage and store it, then add in the other components when you’re ready to eat. However, the pasta is best fresh.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth can be a great substitute if you want a vegetarian option or if you’re out of chicken broth.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen. Store them in an airtight container for up to two months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back the creaminess.

Conclusion

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is more than just a dish to make for dinner; it’s an experience that combines flavor, convenience, and warmth. With simple ingredients that come together in one pot for minimal cleanup, it’s easy to see why this recipe is a favorite among families. As you indulge in the cheesy goodness, take a moment to share this recipe with friends and family, inviting them to enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal that will have everyone asking for seconds or a dish to impress guests, this pasta is sure to deliver. Don’t forget to play with the variations at your disposal, creating something that truly resonates with your taste. Now go ahead, make this delightful dish, and relish every cheesy bite!