Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my *absolute favorite* weeknight dish: one pot cheesy sausage pasta! Seriously, it’s a game-changer. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that’s not only incredibly delicious but also super easy to whip up? This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, and it’s so creamy and flavorful that you’ll find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!).
What I love most about this recipe is how comforting it is. The rich, cheesy goodness combined with the savory Italian sausage makes it a family favorite in my house. I remember the first time I made it; my kids gobbled it up in record time, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about how it reminded him of the pasta his grandmother used to make. Now, it’s become one of our go-to meals, especially on those busy nights when I want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with my family.
Trust me, once you try this one pot wonder, you’ll be hooked too! It’s all about that creamy texture and the way the flavors meld together beautifully. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients for One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
Alright, here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy masterpiece! Grab these simple ingredients and let’s get cooking:
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 12 ounces pasta (any shape you love works!)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, your choice!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that dreamy, creamy texture)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (I like a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra cheesiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for a little extra flavor boost)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
That’s it! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. I love how straightforward this recipe is. So, gather your ingredients and let’s move on to the fun part—preparing this delicious dish!
How to Prepare One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious one pot cheesy sausage pasta! I promise it’s super simple, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can nail it on the first try. Ready? Let’s do this!
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
First things first, heat up your large pot over medium heat and add that glorious Italian sausage. You’ll want to break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. The key here is to brown the sausage thoroughly—this is where all that rich flavor comes from! You want it to get nice and golden, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Trust me, that’s the flavor base you don’t want to skip!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once your sausage is beautifully browned, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in the pasta, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give everything a good stir to combine. Make sure all the pasta is submerged in the broth; it’s crucial for even cooking. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 3: Simmer
Now, bring that mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is when the pasta cooks and absorbs all that delicious flavor from the sausage and broth. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over—nobody wants a messy stovetop!
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
After the pasta is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Oh boy, this is where it gets creamy and dreamy! Mix it all together until the cheese is melted and everything is smooth. If it feels a bit thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it up. You want that perfect, luscious consistency!
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, it’s time to season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, and you’re ready to serve! I love to top mine with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This dish is best served hot, so gather your family around and dig in! Trust me, they’ll be raving about this meal!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness of this one pot cheesy sausage pasta! Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like different types of sausage or cheese. But overall, it’s a hearty meal that packs a punch when it comes to flavor and satisfaction! Perfect for fueling those busy weeknights, right?
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this one pot cheesy sausage pasta! Here are my top tips for achieving the best results every single time:
- Don’t skip the browning: Make sure to brown the sausage well! That caramelization adds a depth of flavor you just can’t replicate any other way. It’s the foundation of this dish!
- Watch your pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers. You want it cooked al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it. Overcooked pasta can get mushy, and we definitely want to avoid that!
- Adjust the creaminess: If you like your pasta extra creamy, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream or cheese. Just remember to balance it with a splash of chicken broth if it gets too thick!
- Season gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, and then taste as you go. It’s easier to add more than to take it away. You want that perfect seasoning that enhances all those yummy flavors.
- Garnish for flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some grated Parmesan on top can elevate the dish. Not only does it add a nice touch, but it gives a fresh contrast to the rich pasta.
- Leftover magic: If you have leftovers (which might be a challenge because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back that creamy consistency.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal that your family will absolutely love. Happy cooking!
Variations to One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
Now, let’s shake things up a bit with some fun variations for this one pot cheesy sausage pasta! I love how versatile this dish is—there are so many ways to switch it up and keep it exciting. Here are some ideas to inspire your next cooking adventure:
- Different Sausage Flavors: Try using different types of sausage! Sweet Italian, spicy Italian, or even chicken sausage can create a whole new flavor profile. Each option brings its unique taste, and it’s a great way to mix things up!
- Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini when you add the pasta. They’ll cook down beautifully and add color and nutrition to the dish!
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses! Instead of the classic cheddar and mozzarella, try pepper jack for a little kick, or a creamy fontina for an ultra-rich texture. Cheese lovers, rejoice!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of this dish immensely. Add some chopped basil or oregano while it simmers for a bright, fresh taste. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs on top when serving for an extra pop!
- Spicy Kick: If you like things spicy, throw in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the sausage. This will give your pasta an exciting kick that’ll have you reaching for a glass of water!
- Creamy Alternatives: For a twist on the creaminess, try adding a scoop of cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream when mixing in the cheese. It’ll give a tangy twist that’s absolutely delicious!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own. It’s all about what you love and what you have on hand. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious leftovers of your one pot cheesy sausage pasta! Trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite because it’s just as good the next day (if it lasts that long!).
To store, simply transfer any leftover pasta into an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down a bit before sealing it up to avoid any condensation that could make things soggy. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re like me and love to meal prep, this dish stores beautifully and makes for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week!
Now, when it comes to reheating, I suggest using the stovetop for the best results. Just add your leftover pasta to a pan over low heat, and stir in a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to help loosen it up. This will bring back that creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Keep stirring until it’s heated through—this usually takes just a few minutes!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it (to prevent splatters!), and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Just remember, a little splash of broth or cream goes a long way here too!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your one pot cheesy sausage pasta all over again. It’s comfort food that keeps on giving! Happy munching!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to cook.
- One Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze! Less time scrubbing dishes means more time enjoying your meal.
- Creamy Goodness: The combination of heavy cream and melted cheese creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta and sausage.
- Flavor Packed: The savory Italian sausage, combined with garlic and onion powder, infuses the dish with mouthwatering flavor that your whole family will love.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this meal! It’s a surefire way to please even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table.
Trust me, once you experience the deliciousness of this one pot cheesy sausage pasta, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your home! Enjoy the pleasure of cooking and the joy of sharing a fantastic meal with your loved ones.
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Cheesy Sausage Pasta.
Print
One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and creamy one pot cheesy sausage pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 12 ounces pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the sausage over medium heat.
- Add the pasta, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This dish can be topped with fresh parsley for garnish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: one pot cheesy sausage pasta
