Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 12 ounces Kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta (can use gluten-free pasta as needed)
Dairy and Liquids
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Aromatics and Oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to preferred heat)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare and cook the Kielbasa: Slice the Kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and sauté them in olive oil over medium heat until browned and crispy on the edges. This releases the smoky flavor and forms the base of the sauce.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the Kielbasa. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, building the flavor foundation for the creamy sauce.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the uncooked pasta directly to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid so it absorbs the savory flavors as it cooks.
- Simmer and stir: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, about 12-15 minutes.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, flavorful finish.
Notes
- Choose quality Kielbasa: use a well-seasoned, smoky variety for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip stirring: regular stirring prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust liquid: keep extra broth or cream nearby to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and texture.
- Let the dish rest for a minute after cooking to thicken the sauce further.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-pot stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: one pot pasta, creamy Kielbasa pasta, easy dinner, quick weeknight meal, comfort food, kielbasa recipe