One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Meal

Looking for a meal that’s rich in flavor, easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup? Look no further! This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is the answer to all your dinner dilemmas. Made with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and al dente pasta, this dish brings all the comforting flavors together in one pot—perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something indulgent.

Let’s dive into this cheesy, flavorful recipe that will quickly become a household favorite! 🔥

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

✅ One Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
✅ Creamy & Cheesy – The perfect balance of cheese and creaminess.
✅ Hearty & Flavorful – Sausage and pasta packed with rich flavors.
✅ Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients and steps for a hassle-free meal.
✅ Kid-Friendly – A dish the whole family will love! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Key Ingredients & Substitutions 🛒

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cheesy sausage pasta:

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage – Use spicy or mild, depending on your preference 🌶️
• 12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta – Perfect for holding the cheesy sauce 🍝
• 2 cups chicken broth – Adds depth to the flavor 🍗
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce creamy and luscious 🧴
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts perfectly into the sauce 🧀
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds that sharp, nutty flavor 🧀
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the sausage 🫒
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – To enhance the flavor 🧄
• Salt & pepper – To taste 🧂

For Extra Flavor (Optional):

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – For a little heat 🌶️
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs – For that herby touch 🌿
• Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish 🌱

Substitutions & Variations:

• Sausage: Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Pasta: Swap penne for any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni.
• Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gouda, sharp cheddar, or even pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Broth: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Step-by-Step Instructions 👨‍🍳

Step 1: Brown the Sausage 🥩

1️⃣ Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2️⃣ Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3️⃣ Season the Sausage: Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and infuse the flavors.

💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage while it cooks. This will give it an extra kick! 🌶️

Step 2: Add the Pasta 🍝

1️⃣ Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
2️⃣ Stir in the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is well coated with the broth and sausage mixture.
3️⃣ Cover & Simmer: Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente. If needed, add a little more broth or water to keep the pasta from sticking.

💡 Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Add more liquid if the pasta absorbs all the broth before it’s fully cooked. 💧

Step 3: Make it Creamy 🧴

1️⃣ Add Heavy Cream: Once the pasta is tender, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
2️⃣ Melt the Cheese: Gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting them melt into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

💡 Pro Tip: To get an extra-creamy texture, add a tablespoon of butter at this stage! 🧈

Step 4: Serve & Garnish 🌿

1️⃣ Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more garlic powder if needed.
2️⃣ Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

💡 Pro Tip: Top your dish with extra Parmesan cheese for that cheesy goodness! 🧀

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is so flavorful on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more delicious:

• With a Side Salad: Serve with a light, fresh salad to balance the richness of the pasta. 🥗
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread on the side is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce. 🍞
• With Roasted Vegetables: Try pairing it with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a medley of roasted veggies for added texture and flavor. 🥦

Storage & Reheating Tips 💡

Storing Leftovers 📦

• Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Instructions 🔥

• Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Oven: If reheating a large portion, cover the pot with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a little extra cheese when reheating for that melty, gooey texture! 🧀

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

1️⃣ Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?

Absolutely! You can use chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile. The key is to choose a sausage that’s packed with flavor! 🌱

2️⃣ Is This Recipe Spicy?

It depends! The base recipe isn’t spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage. 🌶️

3️⃣ Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep this dish up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

4️⃣ Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

You can try using dairy-free cheese and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. The texture and flavor will vary, but it’s definitely doable! 🌱

5️⃣ Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

Of course! You can swap out penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

Why You Should Make This Dish Today 🍽️

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is comfort food at its finest. It combines the rich flavors of sausage, creamy cheese, and pasta, all cooked together in one pot for maximum convenience. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. And with only one pot to clean, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. 😌

So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a deliciously creamy, cheesy sausage pasta that will leave you coming back for more!

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Final Thoughts
This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal. With its creamy sauce, juicy sausage, and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time! Try it out tonight, and don’t forget to share your results! 😋🍴

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