Introduction & Inspiration
When I need a quick and satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes — creamy, cheesy, smoky, and filling — this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is my go-to. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and always gets rave reviews from the whole family.
I love the combination of smoky sausage, hearty bow tie pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like comfort but comes together in under 30 minutes.
Each spoonful delivers a perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and melted cheddar goodness.
Nostalgic Appeal
There’s something so comforting about sausage pasta — it reminds me of potluck dinners and cozy weeknights around the table. This version takes me right back to childhood meals, where simple ingredients and big flavors always won.
The smoky aroma of the sausage as it sizzles, the richness of the cream, and the sharp cheddar melting into the sauce — all of it feels nostalgic, warm, and grounding.
Even now, the scent that fills the kitchen while it simmers makes the whole house feel like home.
Homemade Focus
What I love about this recipe is that it’s entirely homemade — but still incredibly simple. There’s no need for a dozen pans or complicated steps. One pot does it all.
By using just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can make something that tastes like it came from a restaurant — but for a fraction of the cost.
Plus, I can control everything that goes into it, which means no added preservatives or mystery ingredients.
Flavor Goal
This pasta is rich and creamy with a savory tomato base, a touch of garlic, and the bold smokiness of sausage.
Smoked sausage brings a deep, savory flavor that infuses the whole dish.
Onions and garlic form the aromatic base that layers flavor from the very first step.
Chicken broth and tomatoes build the body of the sauce while keeping it light.
Heavy cream makes the sauce luscious and coats the pasta beautifully.
Black pepper adds a mild kick to balance the richness.
Cheddar cheese gives the final creamy, tangy punch that makes the dish irresistible.
Ingredient Insights
Smoked sausage: Choose a high-quality sausage with natural casing for the best flavor and texture. Kielbasa or andouille are great choices if you want a little extra kick.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the sausage and onions, olive oil adds flavor and ensures everything browns evenly.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it softens.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds bold aroma and ties all the flavors together.
Chicken broth: A great base that provides body and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. I recommend low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.
Diced tomatoes: These add acidity and sweetness. Use a 12 oz can for just the right amount of tomato flavor.
Heavy cream: This thickens the sauce and gives it a luxurious, rich texture.
Black pepper: Just a dash enhances the flavors without overpowering.
Whole wheat bow tie pasta: This shape holds the sauce well and offers a slight nuttiness that complements the sausage. You can use regular pasta too if you prefer.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds creaminess and that unmistakable cheesy kick. Shred it fresh for best melting results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat
Add 2 lbs of sliced smoked sausage and 1 medium chopped onion
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves
Cook for 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant — be careful not to burn it
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 can (12 oz) diced tomatoes, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream
Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and stir well to combine
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Stir in 8 oz of dry whole wheat bow tie pasta
Press the pasta down so it’s mostly submerged in the liquid
Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pan with a lid and bring to a low boil
Reduce heat and let the pasta simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Stir until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth
Step 7: Serve
Spoon into bowls while hot
Top with additional shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired
Enjoy warm and cheesy perfection in every bite!
Troubleshooting
If the sauce seems too thick before the pasta is cooked, add a splash of broth or water and continue simmering.
If the pasta is still a little firm after 20 minutes, cover and cook for a few extra minutes — every stove and pan is different.
If you want more heat, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Cheese clumping? Make sure the sauce isn’t boiling when you add the cheese — low heat helps it melt smoothly.
Tips and Variations
Swap bow tie pasta with penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni for a fun twist.
Add baby spinach or kale at the end for a veggie boost.
Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner version.
Stir in roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.
Top with breadcrumbs and broil for 2 minutes for a baked casserole-style finish.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
Pair with a crisp side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for balance.
Goes well with sparkling water, iced tea, or a bold red wine like Zinfandel.
Leftovers are even better the next day — just reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth.
Nutritional Information
This dish is hearty and satisfying, with protein from the sausage and cheese and fiber from whole wheat pasta.
Heavy cream and cheddar add richness, so a small portion goes a long way.
Add vegetables or use lighter sausage and cream if you’re aiming to reduce calories.
You’ll feel full, comforted, and completely satisfied after just one bowl.
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One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Description
When I need a quick and satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes — creamy, cheesy, smoky, and filling — this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is my go-to
Ingredients
Smoked sausage: Choose a high-quality sausage with natural casing for the best flavor and texture. Kielbasa or andouille are great choices if you want a little extra kick.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the sausage and onions, olive oil adds flavor and ensures everything browns evenly.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it softens.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds bold aroma and ties all the flavors together.
Chicken broth: A great base that provides body and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. I recommend low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.
Diced tomatoes: These add acidity and sweetness. Use a 12 oz can for just the right amount of tomato flavor.
Heavy cream: This thickens the sauce and gives it a luxurious, rich texture.
Black pepper: Just a dash enhances the flavors without overpowering.
Whole wheat bow tie pasta: This shape holds the sauce well and offers a slight nuttiness that complements the sausage. You can use regular pasta too if you prefer.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds creaminess and that unmistakable cheesy kick. Shred it fresh for best melting results.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat
Add 2 lbs of sliced smoked sausage and 1 medium chopped onion
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves
Cook for 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant — be careful not to burn it
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 can (12 oz) diced tomatoes, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream
Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and stir well to combine
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Stir in 8 oz of dry whole wheat bow tie pasta
Press the pasta down so it’s mostly submerged in the liquid
Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pan with a lid and bring to a low boil
Reduce heat and let the pasta simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Stir until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth
Step 7: Serve
Spoon into bowls while hot
Top with additional shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired
Enjoy warm and cheesy perfection in every bite!
Recipe Summary and Q&A
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is creamy, cheesy, smoky, and ultra-satisfying — made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, all in one pan.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
Can I freeze it?
Definitely — let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use a non-dairy cream alternative and dairy-free cheese for a similar result.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, any short pasta works — just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Is it spicy?
Not as written, but you can spice it up with hot sausage or crushed red pepper flakes.
This dish proves that easy, one-pot meals can be bold, comforting, and absolutely crave-worthy. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
