There’s nothing quite like a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that comes together in a single pot. One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and creamy, making it a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. The smoky sausage infuses the sauce with a deep, rich flavor, while the pasta soaks up all the goodness, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. With minimal cleanup and a combination of bold flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will love. The balance of creamy tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and juicy sausage slices makes this one-pot wonder a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, fewer dishes, and all the flavors come together beautifully in a single pan.
Bold and Savory Flavors: The smoky sausage, rich tomato sauce, and seasonings create a satisfying, flavor-packed dish.
Family-Friendly: A meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients by adding vegetables, switching the sausage type, or adjusting the spice level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is simple, but having the right tools on hand will make the process even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A deep skillet or a Dutch oven is perfect for cooking everything in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the smoked sausage and any additional ingredients like onions or garlic.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps stir the pasta and sauce without scratching your pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures you get the right balance of broth, cream, and seasoning.
Ladle: Useful for stirring and serving the pasta when it’s done.

Each tool plays a crucial role in making sure the pasta cooks evenly, the sausage browns properly, and the sauce thickens just right.

Preparation Tips

Slice the Sausage Evenly: Cutting the smoked sausage into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and perfect texture in every bite.
Use the Right Pasta: Short pasta like bowtie, penne, or rotini works best for absorbing sauce and holding up to the smoky sausage.
Sauté First for Maximum Flavor: Browning the sausage before adding other ingredients enhances its smoky flavor.
Keep an Eye on Liquid Levels: The pasta will absorb the broth and cream as it cooks. Stir occasionally and add a bit more liquid if needed.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Letting the pasta sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld together.

Ingredients for One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

To make this flavorful and comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
2 cups uncooked pasta (bowtie, penne, or rotini work best)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy, and smoky pasta dish that’s packed with bold flavors. The smoked sausage is the star, while the creamy sauce and seasonings bring everything together in perfect harmony.

Step 1: Sauté the Smoked Sausage

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sliced smoked sausage. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned on both sides. This enhances the smoky flavor and adds a delicious texture. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to ensure it is fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add a splash of extra broth to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Combine Everything

Once the pasta is cooked, stir the browned smoked sausage back into the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the pasta and mix until melted and creamy. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta!

Notes

Choose the Right Sausage: Smoked sausage adds depth to the dish, but you can also use andouille for a spicier kick or kielbasa for a milder flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy sausage.
Make it Creamier: If you love a rich, creamy texture, stir in an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and texture.
Pasta Choices: Bowtie, penne, or rotini hold up well in the sauce, but feel free to experiment with other pasta types.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Since it cooks directly in the sauce, check for doneness early to prevent it from becoming mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Skipping the Sauté Step: Browning the sausage before adding liquids enhances its smoky flavor. Don’t skip this step!
Not Stirring Enough: The pasta needs to be stirred occasionally while cooking to absorb the liquid evenly and prevent clumping.
Adding Cheese Too Soon: Stir the cheese in at the end to ensure it melts properly and doesn’t get grainy.
Using Too Much Liquid: If the pasta looks too soupy after cooking, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken before serving.

What to Serve With One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta?

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and adding a little crunch to your meal.

2. Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta. Try a simple Caesar or arugula salad.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the smoky flavors in the dish.

4. Steamed Broccoli

A healthy and simple side that adds color and a bit of crunch without overpowering the pasta.

5. Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the smoked sausage and add an extra layer of umami flavor.

6. Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with parmesan and a hint of garlic make a delicious and hearty side.

7. Coleslaw

A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

8. Cornbread

For a Southern-inspired twist, serve a slice of warm, buttery cornbread alongside your pasta.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.

Freezing:
This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully warmed. Add a splash of liquid to prevent drying out.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the ingredients used.

Calories: ~450
Protein: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~9g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~5g
Sodium: ~850mg

For a lighter version, use turkey sausage, reduce the cheese, or substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can swap smoked sausage for andouille (spicier), kielbasa (mild), or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.

2. What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Short pasta like bowtie, penne, or rotini works best as it holds onto the sauce well and cooks evenly in one pot.

3. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add extra red pepper flakes, use spicy smoked sausage, or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.

4. How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Check the pasta a few minutes before the recommended cook time and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If needed, add liquid gradually rather than all at once.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini all pair well with smoked sausage and pasta. Add them when sautéing the onions for the best texture.

6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can work, but it won’t be as creamy. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or adding a small amount of cream cheese for richness.

7. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let the pasta sit for a few minutes after cooking, as it will continue absorbing the sauce. If needed, stir in extra cheese or a small cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients, but make sure to use a large enough pot to accommodate the extra pasta and liquid.

Conclusion

One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, creamy, and bursting with smoky flavor. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort. Plus, with endless customization options, you can make it your own by adding veggies, swapping sausages, or adjusting the spice level. Try it out, and enjoy a delicious homemade pasta dish with just one pot to clean!