One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

Name: One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe - Easy 30-Minute Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta; 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, with juices; 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth; 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream; 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Posted on August 9, 2025

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Picture this: a busy weeknight, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Now imagine a dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, fills the whole family with warmth, and leaves you with only one pan to clean. That’s right! This One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe checks all those boxes! The moment the cheesy goodness hits your taste buds, you’ll understand why this is a go-to recipe in my house.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was looking for something quick yet satisfying. I was tired of the same old routines, and I wanted a dish that was not only easy but also packed with flavor. You know those meals that bring everyone to the table with smiles? This is one of them! With a simple mix of smoked sausage, pasta, and a gooey cheese blend, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) reheat beautifully!

What makes this One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe worth making? Well, it’s not just about the flavor and convenience. This dish is perfect for busy families, picky eaters, or anyone who loves comfort food with minimal fuss. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in front of the TV.
Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike.
Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with smoky sausage is a flavor explosion!

This isn’t just another one-pan pasta recipe. What sets it apart is the combination of smoked sausage and the rich, cheesy sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. The technique of cooking everything in one pan not only saves you time but also allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully. Let’s face it—who doesn’t love a meal that’s ready in a flash but tastes like you spent hours preparing it?

The emotional connection to this dish runs deep; it reminds me of the nights spent around the dinner table with family, laughter echoing as we all dug into our bowls. It’s comfort food reimagined—quick, easy, and just as satisfying! Honestly, once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor without the fuss. Most of these should be pantry staples, and if you don’t have them all on hand, substitutions are easy!

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta: Uncooked, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage: Sliced (I love using kielbasa for its smoky flavor).
1 medium onion: Diced, adds a sweet base to the dish.
2 cloves garlic: Minced, because who doesn’t love garlic?
1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes: With juices, this provides moisture and flavor.
2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth: For cooking the pasta and adding depth.
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream: This makes the sauce wonderfully creamy.
1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheese: Cheddar or a blend that melts well.
Salt and pepper: To taste, don’t forget to season as you go!
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional but adds a fresh touch).

Feel free to mix and match based on what you have! For instance, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap the cream for a lower-fat alternative or even use a dairy-free option if needed. If you want to add some veggies, throw in some bell peppers or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition and color!

Equipment Needed

Let’s keep it simple; you won’t need fancy equipment for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large skillet: A deep one is ideal to hold all the ingredients. I love using my cast iron skillet!
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring everything together.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get those perfect proportions.

If you don’t have a large skillet, feel free to use any big pot or even a Dutch oven. Just make sure it has a lid, as we’ll be covering it for part of the cooking process. And don’t worry about needing any complicated gadgets; this recipe is all about simplicity!

Preparation Method

Ready to bring this dish to life? Follow these simple steps:

Heat the skillet: Place your large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Sauté the sausage: Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor! Remove the sausage and set aside.
Add onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine ingredients: Add the uncooked penne pasta, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and the cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir everything together.
Cover and cook: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add cream and cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your one-pan wonder!

Throughout the cooking process, keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn’t overcook. If you find it’s getting too dry, feel free to add a splash more broth or cream. And remember, it should smell incredible by the time you’re adding that cheese!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta turns out perfect every time:

Don’t rush the sausage: Browning the sausage adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate, so give it the time it needs!
Keep it covered: Covering the skillet while cooking helps steam the pasta, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Experiment with cheese: Mixing different types of cheese can create a unique flavor profile. Try a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for extra gooeyness!
Watch the pasta: Every brand of pasta cooks differently. Check for doneness a couple of minutes before the time indicated on the package.
Adjust seasonings: Always taste as you go! You might prefer a bit more salt or pepper, depending on your palate.

Remember, every cooking experience is a chance to learn something new. I’ve had my fair share of mishaps in the kitchen, but they’ve only made me a more confident cook!

Variations & Adaptations

This One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe is super versatile! Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetable Medley: Add in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for some extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
Cheesy Broccoli: Stir in some steamed broccoli florets towards the end of cooking for a classic combination.
Gluten-Free: Swap the penne for gluten-free pasta; just ensure to adjust cooking times as necessary.

Feel free to get creative! This recipe is all about what you enjoy and what you have on hand. Make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For serving, I recommend enjoying this dish warm right out of the skillet! It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or some garlic bread for that extra comfort food vibe.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish is not just delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits! Here’s a quick look:

Protein: The smoked sausage provides a good source of protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Calcium: With the cheese and heavy cream, you’re getting a nice dose of calcium for strong bones.
Vitamins: Adding vegetables boosts the vitamin content, making it a more balanced meal.

Keep in mind that you can adjust the recipe to fit various dietary needs, whether that’s low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian. It’s all about customizing it to suit your lifestyle!

Conclusion

In a nutshell, this One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta Recipe is a must-try! It’s quick, easy, and delicious—perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to make it your own and experiment with different flavors and ingredients!

What’s your favorite twist on this recipe? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—everyone deserves a taste of this cheesy goodness. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite sausage or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.
What can I substitute for cream? You can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk for a lighter version, although it may not be as creamy.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to a month. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy!
How can I make this dish spicier? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or serve with hot sauce for a spicy kick!

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