One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta: The Ultimate Weeknight Savior

Are you constantly juggling work, family, and personal time, wondering how to put a hearty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta recipe is the answer to your culinary prayers. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for leftovers. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Minimal Cleanup: Only one pan required.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Perfect for dinner, and leftovers make an excellent lunch.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb. smoked sausage (sliced)
• ½ cup diced onion (about half a medium onion)
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic (approximately 3 cloves)
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• ½ cup milk (lactose-free works too!)
• 8 oz. dry pasta (penne or rotini work best)
• ½ tablespoon salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese
• ⅓ cup chopped scallions (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

•Slice the smoked sausage into ¼-inch pieces.

•Dice the onion finely.

•Mince the garlic if you’re using fresh cloves.

•Chop the scallions and set them aside for garnish.

•Measure out your spices and seasonings (salt, pepper, red pepper flakes).

2. Sauté the Sausage and Onions

In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.

•Add the sliced smoked sausage and ½ cup diced onion to the pan.

•Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onions are translucent.

Cooking Hack: To get a nice sear on the sausage, avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook in batches.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings

•Stir in 1 tablespoon minced garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using).

•Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

Home Tip: Garlic can burn quickly, becoming bitter. Keep a close eye during this step!

4. Incorporate Liquids and Pasta

•Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices), and ½ cup of milk.

•Stir in 8 oz of dry pasta, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Cooking Hack: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can substitute the milk with heavy cream.

5. Bring to a Boil and Simmer

•Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

•Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

•Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Home Tip: Use a transparent lid to monitor the cooking without lifting the lid and releasing heat.

6. Add the Cheese

•After 15 minutes, check if the pasta is al dente. If not, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

•Stir in 2 cups of shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Cooking Hack: For an extra layer of flavor, use smoked cheese varieties.

7. Garnish and Serve

•Turn off the heat and let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to thicken.

•Sprinkle the chopped scallions over the top.

•Serve hot, straight from the pan.

Home Tip: Pair this dish with a simple green salad to balance out the meal.