The first time I tossed sliced kielbasa into a hot pan, that sizzle sent me straight back to Grandma’s kitchenradio humming, onions softening, her apron smudged with butter. This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta brings that same cozy moment to your table, but with a quicker, simpler twist. It’s been bubbling up everywhere lately because, well, cheesy pasta and smoky sausage? Hard to say no.

Here’s the magic: smoky kielbasa, tender pasta, and rich tomato goodness all come together in *one* potyep, even the pasta cooks right in the sauce. You get all that slow-simmered flavor, without the mountain of dishes. It’s like your favorite baked ziti met a campfire skillet and decided to become best friends. Plus, everything here uses pantry basicsperfect for midweek when fridge foraging is the name of the game.

I first threw this dish together during a snowstorm in 2019, when we lost power for most of a day but the gas burner still worked. My husband said it smelled like his mother’s Sunday saucehigh praise, believe me. What made it magic? Toasting the kielbasa slices first, just until the edges curl and brown. Since then, I’ve shared dozens of one-pot recipes, but this one? It’s the most requested by far.

Yesica Andrews

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta: Easy Delicious Cheesy Recipe

This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dinner that combines smoky kielbasa with creamy pasta all cooked in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Easy Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. Enjoy a comforting and hearty meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 14 oz kielbasa sausage sliced into ½ inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 small onion chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz penne pasta or your choice of short pasta
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Method

 

1. Heat oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned (about 4–5 minutes).
2. Add garlic and onions. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a boil.
4. Add uncooked pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Let rest for 2 minutes to thicken. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Variations: Try adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms. You can also substitute the kielbasa with turkey sausage or chicken.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that won’t leave you with a mountain of dishes? This One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta recipe is your answer! It’s the kind of comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, full of smoky kielbasa, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all made in a single pan. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need flavor fast.

Easy One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta

This recipe is the ultimate solution for weeknight dinnersquick, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Here’s what truly sets it apart:

• One pot, minimal cleanup: Seriously, everything, including the pasta, cooks right in a single pan. Fewer dishes mean more time for you!
• Classic flavors with a smoky twist: The savory kielbasa brings incredible depth and a delightful smoky kick to the creamy, cheesy pasta.
• Beginner-friendly and foolproof: With simple, readily available ingredients and an easy-to-follow cooking method, even if you’re new to the kitchen, you’ll master this dish with confidence.
• Effortlessly customizable: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like fresh spinach or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, tailoring it perfectly to your taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the stars of this incredibly satisfying recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that rich, cozy flavor profile. For best results, measure precisely!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
• 14 ounces (or 1 lb) smoked kielbasa: Sliced into ½-inch rounds. Smoky and slightly sweet, it crisps beautifully to add texture and bold flavor to the dish.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Along with garlic, forms the aromatic, foundational base of this dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The ultimate flavor duo with onion, providing warmth and depth.
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended): Provides a savory liquid for cooking the pasta and building the sauce, ensuring perfect al dente texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to creating that incredibly rich, velvety sauce that generously clings to every single bite of pasta.
• 12 ounces (about 3 cups) uncooked penne pasta: Or your favorite short pasta like rotini or shells. Penne’s ridges are perfect for catching all that delicious sauce.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Plus extra for serving! It melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty, and distinctly cheesy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle warmth, beautiful color, and an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the kielbasa.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste. Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish. Adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor (optional, but highly recommended).

Pro Tip:

While penne is excellent for its sauce-catching ridges, don’t hesitate to substitute with rotini or shells for a similar hearty feel. Just ensure it’s a short, sturdy pasta that can stand up to simmering.

Step-by-Step: How to Make One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta

This recipe comes together so smoothlyyou’ll be plating up a delicious meal in just about 30 minutes! Here’s how to create this comforting dish:

1. Sauté the Kielbasa: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 14 ounces (or 1 lb) sliced kielbasa and sauté for 4–5 minutes until the edges are nicely browned and just a little crispy. Remove the kielbasa with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
2. Build Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, stir in the 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Simmer the Sauce Base: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the 12 ounces (about 3 cups) uncooked penne pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir frequently (every 1-2 minutes) to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure even cooking.
5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (a creamy sauce should remain), remove from heat. Stir in the ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is thick and creamy. Return the cooked kielbasa to the pan. Season generously with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest, uncovered, for 2 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken further. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm immediately.

Quick Timing Guide:

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta Every Time

• Stir, Stir, Stir: This is crucial! Stir the pasta frequently (every minute or two) while simmering to keep it from clumping together and sticking to the bottom of your pot.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta during the simmering stage. You want it al dentetender but still with a slight bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning to Your Liking: Always taste the sauce before serving! You might want to tweak the salt, pepper, or add a bit more paprika for extra warmth.
• Thin the Sauce if Needed: If the sauce thickens too much after resting or as leftovers, simply stir in a splash of extra chicken broth or milk (or even a little water) to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
• Boost with Veggies: Want to add more nutrition? Toss in a few handfuls of fresh spinach just before the pasta is done simmering, or stir in frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

This creamy kielbasa pasta stores remarkably well, making it an ideal candidate for delicious leftovers:

• Fridge: Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm individual portions on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. For best results and to revive the creamy sauce, add a splash of milk or chicken broth as you reheat. Stir well until warmed through.

Storage Cheat Sheet:

Expert Insight: The Enduring Appeal of One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta

One-pot kielbasa pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to efficient cooking without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or comfort. Combining protein, starch, and often vegetables in a single pan not only drastically simplifies cleanup but also allows all the robust flavors to truly meld and deepen. It’s a brilliant, practical weeknight solution that perfectly balances ultimate convenience with a satisfying, hearty, and utterly delicious taste.

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Finding Comfort in One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta: A Personal Touch

After a few joyful rounds of fiddling with ingredients and fine-tuning the timing, I finally perfected this One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta recipe. Each attempt brought valuable lessonslike discovering the secret to keeping the pasta tender but never mushy, and how the kielbasa’s smoky notes truly elevate the entire dish. Today’s version is my go-to for a cozy, simple meal that effortlessly fills the kitchen with warm, inviting aromas every single time. It’s truly a labor of love, designed to bring comfort to your table.

FAQs ( One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta
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Conclusion: Your New Weeknight Favorite Awaits!

The One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta truly comes together in about 30 minutes, delivering rich, smoky flavors with creamy, cheesy comfortno fuss, just pure home-cooked joy. You’ll absolutely love how every bite feels like a warm hug after a busy day, and the best part is the minimal cleanup!

Feel free to sneak in some fresh spinach or swap penne for rotini for a fun twist that keeps things interesting. Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of broth or milk to keep that sauce silky and fresha little trick I picked up from a seasoned home cook myself! This dish is as flexible as it is flavorful, making it perfect for your next family meal.

Give it a try tonight and share your photos or your own special tweaksI’d genuinely love to hear if this recipe brings you back to your own family table memories. Pass it along to cozy up someone else’s dinner tonight. Happy cooking, friends!