One Pot Pasta and Sausage Recipe

One pot pasta and sausage recipe
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There’s nothing better than a hearty, home-cooked meal that doesn’t leave you with a sink full of dishes. Enter this one pot pasta and sausage recipe, a lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

It’s warm, satisfying, and bursting with bold flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food that’s also incredibly easy to whip up.

Picture a savory sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce—all cooked together in a single pot. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity.

It’s a no-fuss meal that requires minimal prep and even less cleanup. Whether you’re juggling work and family, or just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen, this dish has your back.

And if you’re like me, January’s chilly evenings call for meals that warm you from the inside out. This pasta dish fits the bill perfectly, combining rich, comforting flavors with a touch of elegance.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl—ideal for a cozy family dinner or even a casual date night at home.

Why You’ll Love It

  • One-pot wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner.
  • Full of flavor: The sausage brings smoky, savory goodness, while the pasta absorbs all the deliciousness of the sauce.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknights.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, swap the sausage for chicken, or go spicy with a hot Italian sausage.

Ingredients

For the One-Pot Pasta and Sausage

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 12 ounces (340g) penne or your favorite short pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Additional Parmesan cheese

This one-pot pasta and sausage recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, so feel free to mix it up with your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand.

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Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this one-pot pasta and sausage recipe, you’ll need:

  • A large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven with a lid
  • A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • A knife and cutting board for chopping onions and garlic
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • A grater for Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: Tongs (helpful for mixing in greens like spinach or kale)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Liquids
5. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine.
6. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine and Finish
7. Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the cooked sausage and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
8. Add fresh spinach or kale, if desired, and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve warm and enjoy!

More Recipes >>>>>> Yummy Chicken Enchiladas

one pot pasta and sausage

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Use the right pot: A deep skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe because it allows the pasta to cook evenly and prevents spillage.
  • Stir occasionally: Stirring every few minutes ensures the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot and cooks evenly.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Remove the pot from heat as soon as the pasta is tender to avoid mushy noodles. The residual heat will thicken the sauce.
  • Customize your protein: If you don’t have sausage, try ground beef, turkey, or even chicken. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
  • Boost the flavor: Add a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions or sprinkle in some Italian seasoning for extra depth.
  • Make it spicy: Opt for hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  • Use fresh greens: Spinach and kale are excellent add-ins, but you can also try arugula or chopped zucchini.

This one-pot pasta and sausage recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for anyone craving a comforting, no-fuss dinner. Give it a try and let it become your new go-to meal for busy nights!

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  • Pasta: Use any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. For a gluten-free option, substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
  • Sausage: Swap Italian sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or a plant-based sausage alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Ground beef or pork also works well.
  • Heavy cream: Use whole milk, half-and-half, or unsweetened coconut milk for a lighter option.
  • Parmesan cheese: Substitute with Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Chicken broth: Vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube can replace chicken broth.
  • Tomatoes: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use crushed tomatoes instead of diced ones. For a spicier dish, try fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
  • Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.

Serving Suggestions

  • Bread: Pair the pasta with warm, crusty garlic bread or a simple baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad, Caesar salad, or arugula salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
  • Wine pairing: Enjoy this dish with a glass of red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or a light Pinot Noir for a balanced pairing.
  • Toppings: Offer extra Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or freshly ground black pepper for guests to customize their plates.
pasta and sausage

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating:
    • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
    • Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating. Add a bit of liquid if it seems dry.
  • Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. However, if you freeze it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop.

More Recipes >>>>>> Creamy White Chicken Chili

FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: How do I make this recipe spicier?
A: Use spicy Italian sausage, increase the red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
A: It’s not recommended because the pasta needs to cook in the sauce to absorb the flavors. However, you can mix pre-cooked pasta with the sauce and simmer briefly to combine.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

This one-pot pasta and sausage recipe is versatile, comforting, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

pasta and sausage

One-Pot Pasta and Sausage Recipe

There's nothing better than a hearty, home-cooked meal that doesn't leave you with a sink full of dishes. Enter this one-pot pasta and sausage recipe—a lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s warm, satisfying, and bursting with bold flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food that’s also incredibly easy to whip up.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • A large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven with a lid
  • A wooden spoon or spatula
  • A knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • A grater
  • Tongs optional

Ingredients
  

For the One-Pot Pasta and Sausage

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound 450g Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 12 ounces 340g penne or your favorite short pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 can 14 ounces diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale roughly chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Additional Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables

  • Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

  • In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Liquids

  • Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine.
  • Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

  • Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the cooked sausage and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
  • Add fresh spinach or kale, if desired, and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

  • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Nutritional Value (Approximate, Per Serving)

  • Calories: 500-550 kcal
  • Protein: 20-25 g (from sausage, pasta, and Parmesan cheese)
  • Carbohydrates: 50-55 g (from pasta and tomatoes)
  • Fat: 20-25 g (from sausage, olive oil, and heavy cream)
  • Fiber: 3-5 g (from vegetables and tomatoes)
  • Sugar: 4-6 g (from tomatoes and onions)
  • Sodium: 900-1000 mg (varies based on broth and sausage)
 
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
 
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword one pot pasta and sausage, one pot recipes

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