Looking for a quick, comforting, and cheesy pasta dish? This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is the answer! Packed with flavorful Italian sausage, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, all simmered together in one pan for minimal cleanup. This dish is ready in 30 minutes and is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One Pot: No extra dishes—just cook everything in one pan!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Cheesy & Flavorful: Creamy, cheesy goodness with a delicious, hearty sauce.
- Customizable: Use different types of pasta, proteins, or even sneak in extra veggies!
Ingredients for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) Penne pasta (substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 3 cups (710ml) chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz or 411g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dry Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes for heat
- 2 cups fresh spinach for extra nutrients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes for freshness
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta – Step by Step:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned (about 5 minutes).
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until tender and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
Step 3: Add Pasta & Liquid
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the pasta simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the liquid level.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese
- When the pasta is cooked al dente, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until they melt and the sauce becomes creamy.
Step 6: Season & Serve
- Taste and adjust with salt and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fresh finish.
Helpful Tips for the Best One Pot Pasta:
- Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Adjust the liquid: If the pasta seems dry, add a little more broth or a splash of milk.
- Use fresh cheese: Shredded cheese without anti-caking agents will melt much better.
- Reheat with milk: Add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Serving Suggestions:
- Basic Green Salad: A refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions.)
Storage and Leftovers:
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk to keep the pasta moist.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I substitute another type of sausage?
- Absolutely! Try turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based alternatives.
How can I make it spicier?
- Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
Can I add vegetables?
- Yes! Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions.
Related Recipes for Pasta Lovers:
- Cheesy Chicken Avocado Wrap
- Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Pasta:
This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is a perfect choice for a cozy, easy dinner. With minimal cleanup and endless customization options, it’s a dish everyone will love. Try it today and let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments!
