One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Introduction

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is a deliciously comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta—all cooked in one pot! This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, flavorful meal without a lot of cleanup.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner, and the whole house was filled with the irresistible scent of melting cheese and sizzling sausage. The sausage adds a rich, savory depth of flavor, while the melted cheese creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Each bite is pure comfort, with the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and cheesy goodness.

What’s even better is that everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s the kind of dish that’s both satisfying and practical—no need for extra pots or pans. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this cheesy sausage pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family meals
• Comfort food cravings
• Meal prep
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Here’s why One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta will become your go-to dinner:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
• One Pot Cleanup: With all the ingredients cooked in one pot, cleaning up afterward is fast and easy.
• Rich and Flavorful: The sausage provides a savory, meaty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the sausage, cheese, or even add vegetables to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
• Perfectly Creamy: The combination of cheese and cream creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

To make One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (bulk or casings removed)
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Italian Sausage: The sausage adds a rich, savory flavor that infuses the pasta and sauce. You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference.
• Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work best because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
• Cheese: Mozzarella provides a melty, creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite that enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness and makes the sauce wonderfully smooth and velvety.
• Diced Tomatoes: The tomatoes add a bit of acidity and balance the richness of the cheese and sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta:

Cook the Sausage:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage (removed from casings if using links) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess grease if needed.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients and Cook the Pasta:

3. Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and diced tomatoes with their juices. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine and allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the pasta and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish the Dish:

5. Stir in the Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the cheesy sausage pasta onto plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is a complete meal on its own but can also be served with side dishes:

• With a Side Salad: Pair this hearty pasta with a fresh green salad or Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside a loaf of warm garlic bread for a comforting, indulgent dinner.
• For Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making it great for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• With Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, spinach, or other vegetables to add more nutrients and color to your meal.
• Topped with Red Pepper Flakes: If you like extra spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an added kick.

Additional Tips for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Here are some tips to ensure your One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is perfect every time:

• Use a Good Sausage: The flavor of the sausage really shines in this dish, so choose a high-quality sausage for the best result.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to check the pasta towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking it. It should be al dente and have absorbed most of the liquid.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or fontina, for a unique twist.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pot along with the sausage and onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a richer dish, you can add more heavy cream or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Recipe Variations for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Here are 10 variations you can try for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta:

• Spicy Sausage Pasta: Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Vegetarian Sausage Pasta: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
• Add Spinach: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.
• Sausage and Peppers Pasta: Add sliced bell peppers and onions with the sausage for a classic sausage and peppers twist.
• Chicken Sausage Pasta: Swap the pork sausage for chicken sausage for a lighter version of the dish.
• Mushroom Sausage Pasta: Add sliced mushrooms to the sausage mixture for an earthy, savory flavor.
• Bacon Sausage Pasta: Include crispy bacon bits along with the sausage for extra smoky flavor.
• Cheesy Broccoli Sausage Pasta: Stir in steamed broccoli for a healthier version that still delivers plenty of flavor.
• Cajun Sausage Pasta: Season the sausage with Cajun spices for a spicy, bold twist on the classic.
• Buffalo Sausage Pasta: Add a bit of buffalo sauce to the sausage and cream mixture for a tangy, spicy version.

Freezing and Storage for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

• Freezing: To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Special Equipment for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A deep pot or Dutch oven is ideal for cooking the sausage, pasta, and sauce all in one place.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy spoon or spatula is perfect for breaking up the sausage and stirring the pasta as it cooks.
• Lid for Simmering: A lid is necessary for simmering the pasta and broth to help it cook evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

1. Can I use ground turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
   Yes, ground turkey sausage works well as a lighter alternative to pork sausage.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the pasta ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat when ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any short pasta, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie, for this recipe.
4. How do I make it spicier?
   Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to turn up the heat.
5. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
   You can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

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Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines all the best flavors in one easy-to-make dish. Savory sausage, rich and creamy cheese, and tender pasta are cooked together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze and dinner time hassle-free. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something warm, hearty, and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can add your favorite veggies, switch up the type of sausage, or even play with different kinds of cheese to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or enjoying it on its own, this pasta is sure to become a family favorite.

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is the definition of cozy, satisfying comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, and it delivers deliciousness with every bite. Happy cooking, and I’d love to see how your dish turns out! Share a photo on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creation!