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One-Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Pasta

A quick and comforting one-pan meal featuring smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and tender pasta cooked together for minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base ingredients
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb smoked sausage (polish, kielbasa, or andouille) sliced or diced
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or low-sodium broth)
  • 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 8 oz dry pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional — for heat)
  • ⅓ cup chopped scallions for garnish

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and the sliced sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and the sausage has browned slightly — about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 Tbsp minced garlic, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth, the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), ½ cup milk, and 8 oz dry pasta. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 2 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with ⅓ cup chopped scallions and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, serve directly from the skillet. Pair with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.