Description
One pot creamy Kielbasa pasta is a quick and flavorful meal combining tender pasta, smoky Kielbasa sausage, and a rich creamy sauce all cooked together in a single pan. This comforting and hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, delivering delicious, creamy goodness with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Pasta
- 1 lb smoked Kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Others
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and brown the Kielbasa: Slice the smoked Kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the Kielbasa and cook until nicely browned and caramelized on the edges, about 4-5 minutes, locking in its smoky flavor.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Push the browned Kielbasa to one side of the pan. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to build the aromatic base of the sauce.
- Add pasta and liquids: Pour in uncooked pasta and chicken broth, stirring to ensure the pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is nearly al dente.
- Stir in cream and cheese: Lower the heat and add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the pasta and Kielbasa. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Finish with fresh herbs: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for freshness and color. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use smoked Kielbasa for a richer, deeper flavor compared to fresh sausage.
- Aim to slightly undercook the pasta before adding cream to avoid mushy noodles.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it.
- Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for better melting and flavor.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking in one pot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: one pot, creamy pasta, Kielbasa, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, smoked sausage, comfort food