As a busy home cook, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. Today, I want to share with you one of my favorite quick and easy recipes: Smoked Sausage Pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: Smoked sausage adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with pasta and a creamy sauce.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to scrape up any browned bits. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced, about 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, browned sausage, and shredded cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
- Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for Customization
- Change the Cheese: Use different types of cheese like Parmesan or Pepper Jack to change the flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can add variety and nutrients.
- Use Different Sausage: Experiment with other smoked sausages like Andouille for a different flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe in one pot?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in one pot by cooking the pasta in the same skillet with the sauce. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
Q: How can I make it spicy?
A: Add some red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage like Andouille to give it a kick.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or even macaroni work well in this recipe.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes, the mild flavors and creamy sauce make it suitable for kids. You can adjust the spice level to suit their taste. This Smoked Sausage Pasta is a versatile and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and making it your own!
