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Delicious one pot kielbasa pasta served in a bowl with fresh herbs.

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with browned kielbasa and a garlicky sauce, all made in one pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Base
  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta Rotini or penne are best because they trap sauce well.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced Use your favorite variety.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream Alternatively, use half-and-half plus a tablespoon of butter.
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can be substituted with Pecorino for a sharper bite.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
  • spinach Stir in towards the end for bright color.
  • peas Add during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
  • bell peppers Sauté with the onion at the start.
  • red pepper flakes Use for added heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let the oil shimmer but not smoke.
  2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  3. Push the kielbasa to one side of the pot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the open space and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the dry pasta, ensure it's mostly submerged, cover the pot, and reduce heat to a low simmer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes.
Finishing
  1. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until creamy.
  2. Add the shredded cheddar or mozzarella and stir until melted.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, if using. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 24gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 14gSodium: 1200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

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