Introduction & Inspiration
Some nights just call for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ready fast and doesn’t leave a pile of dishes in its wake. This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is one of those go-to comfort recipes that checks every box. It’s creamy, cheesy, smoky, and deeply flavorful—all cooked together in a single pot. It’s the kind of meal that comes together with pantry staples and fills the kitchen with cozy, crave-worthy aromas.
Nostalgic Appeal
Smoked sausage has that old-school charm that reminds me of family meals growing up—always quick, always filling, always a hit. Paired with bow tie pasta, rich cream, and sharp cheddar cheese, this dish brings a mix of childhood favorites and grown-up flavor. It’s reminiscent of the casseroles or skillet meals my mom used to whip up, only with a little extra flair.
Homemade Focus
What I love most is how everything cooks in one pan. You brown the sausage, simmer the pasta right in the sauce, and finish with a melted cheese swirl that pulls everything together. It’s efficient, unfussy, and the kind of dinner you’ll actually look forward to making after a long day. No boiling pasta separately, no juggling pans—just one pot and a few simple steps.
Flavor Goal
The goal here is bold, smoky, and ultra-comforting. The sausage brings a deep, savory richness that flavors the entire dish. Onion and garlic build the base, while chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cream turn it into a velvety sauce. The pasta soaks up all the goodness, and cheddar cheese melts in to make it irresistibly creamy and cheesy. Every bite is balanced, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredient Insights
Smoked sausage is the star—use a good quality one for the best flavor. Olive oil gets everything started and helps brown the sausage. Onion and garlic are essential for depth and aroma. Chicken broth adds richness and helps the pasta cook right in the pot. Diced tomatoes bring a bit of acidity and balance. Heavy cream makes the sauce silky and luscious. Whole wheat bow tie pasta adds texture and fiber, and cheddar cheese ties it all together with sharp, gooey perfection. Black pepper keeps the flavors grounded and savory.
Essential Equipment
All you need is a large sauté pan or deep skillet with a lid. A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, a cutting board and sharp knife for prep, and that’s it. One pot means fewer dishes and more time enjoying the meal.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lbs smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (12 oz) can diced tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz dry whole wheat bow tie pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and chopped onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened and golden.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn—just enough to release its aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), heavy cream, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine. Let it come to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked bow tie pasta to the pan. Stir well to ensure the pasta is covered in liquid. Cover the pan with a lid and let everything simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta hot, topped with the remaining cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. A little chopped parsley or chives can elevate the presentation and balance the richness.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. It makes a great next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Troubleshooting (FAQ)
If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more broth to loosen it up. Too thin? Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. No bow tie pasta? You can use penne, rotini, or even shells. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. Need a veggie boost? Stir in spinach, peas, or bell peppers.
Tips and Variations
For a smoky kick, try adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika. Use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a melty cheese variation. You can make it dairy-free by subbing cream and cheese with plant-based versions. Or lighten it up by using turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of cream.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs perfectly with garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling lemonade would complement the richness beautifully.
Nutritional Information
This dish is protein-packed and filling, with a creamy texture and lots of flavor. Using whole wheat pasta adds fiber and a touch of nuttiness. You can modify the cream and cheese amounts to suit your dietary needs or keep things extra decadent for a treat.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Description
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavor. Cooked in one pan with bow tie pasta, cheddar cheese, and smoked sausage for an easy dinner win.
Ingredients
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3 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 lbs smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
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1 medium onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 cups chicken broth
-
1 (12 oz) can diced tomatoes
-
½ cup heavy cream
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
-
8 oz dry whole wheat bow tie pasta
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and chopped onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened and golden.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn—just enough to release its aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), heavy cream, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine. Let it come to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked bow tie pasta to the pan. Stir well to ensure the pasta is covered in liquid. Cover the pan with a lid and let everything simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta hot, topped with the remaining cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. A little chopped parsley or chives can elevate the presentation and balance the richness.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. It makes a great next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is creamy, cheesy, smoky, and downright irresistible. It’s the perfect quick dinner with big flavor and minimal mess. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping ahead for the week, it’s the kind of recipe that’s always a hit—and easy to customize however you like.
Call-to-Action
Tried this recipe? Let me know what twist you added—did you sneak in veggies, go spicy, or double the cheese? Save this for your next busy weeknight or share it with a friend who needs a quick win in the kitchen. Let’s keep dinner simple, comforting, and incredibly delicious—one pot at a time.