When you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that doesn’t leave you with a mountain of dishes, this One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pasta, smoky sausage, a creamy tomato-based sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all cooked in one skillet. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
The beauty of this dish is that it takes simple pantry staples and transforms them into a meal your whole family will love. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.
Why This One-Pan Pasta Works
- Convenience: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Balanced Meal: You get protein from sausage, carbs from pasta, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together.
- Customizable: Switch up the sausage, add veggies, or change the cheese to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: The mild smoky flavor appeals to kids and adults alike, and you can adjust the spice level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll want to have ready before you start cooking:
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- ½ cup diced onion (about half a medium onion)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (around 3 cloves)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- ½ cup milk (regular or lactose-free)
- 8 oz dry pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- ½ tablespoon salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese
- ⅓ cup chopped scallions (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Smoked Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until it develops a nice golden-brown sear on both sides, about 3–4 minutes. This step adds a smoky depth of flavor to the entire dish. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onions. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Build the Base
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and milk. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Stir in the dry pasta, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cover the skillet and cook on medium heat for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be tender, and most of the liquid will be absorbed into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Return the Sausage and Add Cheese
Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir until everything is well combined. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts into the pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the lid. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
- Brown the Sausage Well: Don’t rush the searing process. A good sear adds flavor.
- Use the Right Pasta: Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce better than long noodles.
- Keep Stirring: Stir the pasta every few minutes while it cooks to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the Spice: Red pepper flakes are optional, but they add a great contrast to the cheesy sauce.
- Make It Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce.
Variations to Try
- Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Different Cheese: Try mozzarella for a stretchy melt or pepper jack for added heat.
- Sausage Swap: Use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even andouille for a Cajun twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cauliflower florets and reduce the cooking liquid slightly.
What to Serve with Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta
This dish is filling on its own, but you can make it a complete meal by adding sides:
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts
- A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze it, but keep in mind that the pasta may soften slightly when reheated. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage adds a distinct flavor, but you can also use kielbasa, andouille, or even Italian sausage depending on your preference.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely. Just keep an eye on cooking times since gluten-free pasta often cooks faster.
Is this dish spicy?
Not by default. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a weeknight lifesaver. You don’t need fancy ingredients or endless prep work. Instead, you get a dish that’s rich, cheesy, smoky, and comforting, all with minimal effort.
The next time you’re short on time but still want something delicious, pull out your skillet and choose this recipe. It’ll quickly become a family favorite, and you’ll love how easy it is to make and clean up after.