Description
This one pot creamy kielbasa pasta is a rich, flavorful dinner featuring savory kielbasa sausage, creamy sauce, and tender pasta, all made in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds (or chicken sausage for a leaner option)
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Kielbasa: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add kielbasa sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, sauté onion for 2-3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the Pasta and Liquids: Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Simmer and Cook the Pasta: Reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Add the Kielbasa and Seasonings: Return cooked kielbasa to the pot, and add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in Parmesan cheese (optional), garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Spice it up: Add extra Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Add vegetables: Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use different sausages: Swap kielbasa for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even smoked sausage for variety.
- Make it cheesy: Add more cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a richer, cheesier version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg