This one-pot kielbasa pasta is a quick and tasty meal. It’s packed with flavorful sausage, tender pasta, and colorful veggies all cooked together for a delightful experience!
Who doesn’t love a meal that cleans itself up? I can just toss everything into one pot and let it work its magic. Plus, it’s ready in no time, perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage gives the dish its rich flavor. You can swap it with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
Pasta: While penne and rotini work great, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or farfalle. Just ensure the cooking times are similar.
Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara, tomato sauce or even diced tomatoes can work. For a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of pesto. Homemade sauce can take it to the next level!
Cheese: Mozzarella is nice and gooey, but you can substitute with cheddar or even pepper jack for some spice. If you want fewer calories, skip the cheese or use low-fat versions.
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot is simple but requires some attention to keep everything well-blended. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by cooking your kielbasa in a bit of olive oil to set the flavor.
- Add in vegetables like onions and peppers, cooking them until soft before introducing any liquids.
- Once you add the marinara and broth, make sure to stir well. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly.
- When adding the pasta, push it down to immerse it in the liquid. Covering it helps steam and cook the pasta.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially towards the end of cooking.
Enjoying the whole meal in one pot saves time and cleanup, making it a win-win for busy cooks!
Easy One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 12 oz (340g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or tomato sauce)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz (225g) penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to cook, resulting in a total time of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. A quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Kielbasa:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa. Cook the sausage for about 4-5 minutes or until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally. After browning, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook these veggies until they become soft, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for an additional 30 seconds, making sure it doesn’t burn.
3. Combine Sauces and Broth:
Now, add the marinara sauce, chicken broth, dried Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine everything and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Pasta and Kielbasa:
Once the mixture is simmering, stir in the pasta and return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Make sure that the pasta is submerged in the liquid so it cooks evenly.
5. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, which should take about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to stir and prevent sticking.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt and create a creamy texture.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Enjoy your easy one-pot meal!
This hearty, flavorful dish combines sausage, pasta, and sauce all in one pot for easy cleanup and quick prep!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is delicious, you can substitute it with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of sausage you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the kielbasa and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add chickpeas or additional vegetables for protein and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Totally! You can prepare the sausage and vegetables in advance, then simply add the broth, sauce, and pasta when you’re ready to cook. Keep the cheese until the end for that creamy finish.
