# Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta Recipe
**Meta Title:** Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta Recipe
**Meta Description:** Try this quick one pot cheesy sausage pasta recipe for a delicious and easy weeknight meal your family will love!
There’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of a steaming bowl of pasta to make any day better. If you’re anything like me, there are evenings where the last thing you want to do is combat the chaos of dirty dishes and endless pots after a long day. Enter my **Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta** recipe — a simple yet spectacular dish that brings comfort food to your kitchen without the cleanup struggle.
With succulent sausage, oozy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe tantalizes the taste buds and fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma that smells like love. Whether you’re in a rush or simply craving something tasty, this one-pot wonder is here to save the day — all while being ridiculously simple. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
## What is Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta?
Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is a delightful and hearty dish that captures the essence of comfort food. Imagine the savory notes of **Italian sausage** mingling beautifully with al dente **pasta**, enveloped in creamy **cheese sauce**. Each bite is a symphony of flavors — the richness of the cheese, the spice of the sausage, balanced by the freshness of tomatoes and herbs.
This dish is not only about amazing flavors but also about texture. You get the satisfying chew from the pasta, the juicy bite of the sausage, and the creamy consistency of the cheese coating every morsel. It’s a delightful mix that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it originates from the kind of busy home-cooking that prioritizes ease and flavor without skimping on heartiness, making it a classic family favorite.
## Why You’ll Love This Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
– **Time-Saving:** Ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights.
– **One Pot Wonder:** Less cleanup means more time to enjoy dinner and relax with family.
– **Kid-Friendly:** The cheesy deliciousness is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
– **Comforting & Hearty:** Provides warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for any season.
– **Flavor Packed:** Bold flavors from the sausage and cheese will leave you craving more.
– **Customizable:** Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or personal tastes.
– **Great for Meal Prep:** Whip up a batch ahead of time for a quick lunch or dinner.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a straightforward list of what you’ll need to make this mouth-watering dish:
– **8 oz (225g) Penne Pasta**: Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well. Penne’s ridges are perfect!
– **1 lb (450g) Italian Sausage**: Use either spicy or mild, depending on your taste preference. Feel free to swap turkey sausage for a lighter version.
– **1 medium onion, chopped**: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
– **2 cloves garlic, minced**: For that aromatic punch that elevates the flavors.
– **1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes**: Fresh or canned, this will add a touch of acidity.
– **1.5 cups (360ml) chicken broth**: This infuses the pasta with delicious flavor as it cooks.
– **1 cup (240ml) heavy cream**: For a rich, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
– **2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese**: The star of the show — it creates that irresistible cheesiness!
– **Salt and pepper to taste**: Always season to enhance the flavors.
– **2 tbsp olive oil**: For sautéing the onions and sausage.
– **Fresh basil or parsley for garnish**: Optional, but it adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
## How to Make Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
Grab your cooking pot and get ready for an easy ride through this delectable dish!
1. **Sauté the Sausage**: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the **Italian sausage**. Break it apart using your spatula and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown and no longer pink. The sizzling sounds and savory aroma will have your mouth watering immediately.
2. **Add Aromatics**: Stir in the chopped **onion** and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until translucent. The mixture will smell heavenly. Follow with the minced **garlic** and cook for 30 more seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; we want sweet garlic, not bitter!
3. **Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth**: Pour in the can of **diced tomatoes** (with juice) and the **chicken broth**. This is where the magic starts to happen! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
4. **Cook the Pasta**: Add the **penne pasta** directly into the pot. Stir to combine and ensure the pasta is submerged. Cover and cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll start noticing the broth thickening and the pasta absorbing the flavors.
5. **Create the Creamy Sauce**: Once the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, stir in the **heavy cream**. This will create a luscious, creamy texture. Continue to cook for another few minutes until everything is well combined and warmed through.
6. **Add the Cheese**: Lower the heat and sprinkle in the **shredded mozzarella cheese**. Stir vigorously until it’s fully melted and creamy, enveloping every piece of pasta. If it’s looking too thick, don’t worry — just add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. **Season & Serve**: Taste your creation and add salt and pepper as needed. Once everything is adjusted, remove it from the heat and let cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh **basil** or **parsley** before serving. You’ll be greeted by a vibrant, comforting dish that looks as good as it tastes!
## Expert Tips, Tricks & Variations
– To elevate the dish, consider adding **spinach** or **kale** during the last few minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt beautifully and add nutritional value.
– For a zesty kick, toss in a pinch of **red pepper flakes** while sautéing the sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the cheese for a blend of **cheddar** and **Parmesan** for a different twist on richness.
– Leftovers can be jazzed up by adding a dollop of **pesto** or even serving with a side of **garlic bread** for a true indulgent experience.
– Want to make it low-carb? Substitute the pasta with **zucchini noodles** (zoodles) or **cauliflower rice**. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
## What to Serve With Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta
This one-pot dish stands beautifully on its own, but it also pairs well with other sides:
– **Garlic Bread**: Crispy, buttery slices are perfect for soaking up any remaining creamy goodness.
– **Side Salad**: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
– **Steamed Veggies**: Broccoli or green beans sprinkled with lemon bring a refreshing contrast to the dish.
– **Wine Pairing**: A glass of Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors perfectly.
## Storage, Freezing & Meal Prep
Storing leftovers is easy! Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
This dish is also freezer-friendly. Just be sure to store it in freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat.
If you’re prepping for the week, consider making this one pot wonder ahead of time. It retains its flavor well, making it an excellent meal prep option for busy days.
## Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use any type of sausage?**
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of sausage you enjoy. Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage will work well. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary depending on the meat you choose.
**2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the sausage with sautéed **mushrooms** or **plant-based sausage**. Increase the amount of vegetables for a hearty alternative.
**3. What if I don’t have penne pasta?**
No problem! You can use any pasta shape you prefer — fusilli, rotini, or macaroni will all work beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.
**4. Can I add additional vegetables?**
Definitely! Add in your favorites such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even frozen peas. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they maintain some crunch.
**5. How do I make it spicier?**
If spicy food is your jam, go ahead and use **spicy sausage** or add a dash of **hot sauce** or **chili flakes** to the dish for extra heat.
In conclusion, this **Quick One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta** is a delicious, comforting meal that’s swift enough for busy nights yet flavorful enough to please everyone at the table. Now it’s your turn — grab your ingredients and create this magic in your kitchen tonight! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to tag me when you try it! Enjoy!
