One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, look no further than this One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta. With smoky sausage, a creamy sauce, and cheesy pasta, this dish is not only satisfying but also minimizes cleanup. Perfect for busy evenings, this meal is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and heated through. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The aroma of the sautéed vegetables will enhance the flavor profile of your pasta.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine. This will give the dish a lovely herbal note and a hint of heat.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.