One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta has rescued me on countless weeknights when I want something comforting and hearty with the least mess possible. A creamy cheese sauce hugs both Italian sausage and tender pasta, and it all comes together fast in just one trusty pot.

I first tried this recipe when my family was craving real comfort food but I had no energy left after work. Now it is our top pick for every busy night because everyone leaves the table happy.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: brings flavor and heartiness and look for sausage with no fillers for the best taste
• Onion: diced for sweetness and aromatic base go for heavy and firm onions
• Garlic: brings depth and punch use fresh for best results
• Penne pasta or your favorite shape: sticks to sauce without getting mushy choose high quality pasta for better texture
• Chicken broth: for flavor and to cook the pasta opt for low sodium if you want to control salt
• Diced tomatoes: build body and added bite use fire roasted for extra depth
• Tomato paste: thickens and brings tomato intensity choose one with no extra sugar
• Shredded mozzarella: melts into creaminess choose whole milk mozzarella for best melt
• Grated Parmesan: for sharp and nutty flavor always grate fresh if possible
• Dried Italian herbs: for an herby background choose a blend with real oregano and basil
• Salt and pepper: season to taste use sea salt and fresh cracked pepper for brightness
• Optional spinach or cherry tomatoes: for freshness and color add at the end so the greens stay tender

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Ingredients:

Dice the onion peel and mince garlic slice the sausage and measure out your pasta broths and cheeses This prep helps everything come together smoothly later

Brown the Sausage:

Heat a deep skillet or Dutch oven on medium high Add a splash of oil Once hot add sliced sausage Cook until it is golden brown on all sides Let the fat render out for extra flavor

Add Aromatics:

Add your diced onions and minced garlic to the pot Saute until onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant about four to five minutes Stir often to keep anything from burning

Pasta Time:

Pour in the uncooked pasta followed by the chicken broth diced tomatoes and tomato paste Stir everything thoroughly so the pasta is well coated and immersed

Simmer:

Bring everything up to a boil then turn the heat to low Let it simmer uncovered Cook for about twelve to fifteen minutes stirring every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and does not stick The pasta should be al dente and most of the liquid should be absorbed

Cheese Time:

Add in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan Stir while the cheese melts Smooth cheesy sauce should coat all of the pasta and sausage

Final Touches:

Taste and season with salt and pepper Stir in spinach or cherry tomatoes if using Turn off the heat let spinach just wilt Serve immediately while hot and creamy

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One of my favorite moments with this pasta was on a chilly evening when the kitchen filled with the cozy scent of melting cheese and herbs My family gathered around the stove before I even called them to dinner The grated Parmesan brings that perfect nutty sharpness that ties the whole dish together

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days For reheating add a splash of broth or milk in a saucepan over medium heat to loosen up the sauce The pasta will soak up more liquid as it sits

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap turkey sausage for a lighter take or use smoked chicken sausage for a different flavor Rotini or elbows work if you do not have penne For the cheese you could use shredded provolone or Monterey Jack

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli for balance A side of garlic bread makes dinner extra cozy and helps scoop up any cheesy sauce left on the plate

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Cultural Notes

This recipe mixes American convenience with Italian flavors bringing together the spirit of one pot meals and the comfort of classic pasta dishes Italian sausage is a staple in my kitchen for fast weeknight flavor

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes! Try spicy, sweet, or even chicken sausage to customize flavors according to your preference.

→ What pasta shapes work best in this dish?

Penne is popular, but fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini can be equally delicious and hold the sauce well.

→ How do I make it creamier?

Increase the mozzarella or stir in a bit of cream or cream cheese at the end for richer texture.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers are great ways to add nutrition and color.

→ Does it work as leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container and reheat gently; a splash of broth can refresh the sauce.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while sautéing or use hot Italian sausage for a kick of heat.