Creamy Sausage Cheddar Pasta

This ultra-comforting smoked sausage pasta skillet is what I make on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but fast Every bite is creamy cheesy and loaded with flavor plus it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish If you have a pack of smoked kielbasa or sausage and a handful of pantry staples you are halfway to an incredibly delicious dinner

My family begs for this after any chilly day and it always disappears fast The first time I made it my husband went back for seconds before I even sat down

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage and onions Use a good extra virgin olive oil for best flavor
• Smoked kielbasa or turkey or chicken sausage: The star of the dish Choose a sausage with a nice smoky scent and firm texture
• Diced onion: Sweet and savory foundation for the flavor Go for fresh onions and dice them evenly for even cooking
• Garlic: Essential for depth and warmth Use fresh not jarred garlic for best results
• Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps things flavorful but balanced in salt Choose a broth with minimal additives
• Canned diced tomatoes: Adds brightness and acidity Choose a good quality brand and check that the tomatoes are ripe and juicy
• Dry small pasta: Short shapes like rotini penne or shells work best Look for sturdy pasta that holds sauce well
• Milk or heavy cream: Cream for a richer taste milk for lightness
• Salt and pepper: These balance and wake up all the other flavors Always use freshly cracked pepper for extra pop
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings cheesy creaminess Buy a block to shred yourself for the meltiest texture
• Thinly sliced scallions: Vibrant fresh garnish Slice only the green tops for a milder onion note

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Sausage and Onions:

Add olive oil to a large sauté pan and heat over medium high When shimmering add the sliced kielbasa and diced onions Stir and cook for about 5 minutes letting the sausage brown and the onion soften and get golden edges Browning is key for depth

Build the Flavor:

Add the minced garlic to the pan Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until it smells fragrant This quick hit of heat prevents burning but releases all the garlic flavor

Simmer the Pasta:

Pour in the chicken broth diced tomatoes heavy cream or milk pasta salt and pepper Stir everything together making sure the pasta is mostly submerged Bring to a gentle simmer then reduce the heat Cover and cook for about 15 minutes stirring every few minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid

Make it Cheesy:

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in about half the cheddar cheese Let it melt and turn everything creamy Smooth out any cheese clumps

Final Cheese and Garnish:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese all over the top Cover the pan and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the top cheese is melted spotty brown and super bubbly at the edges

Add Scallions and Serve:

Scatter the sliced scallions over the finished pasta and serve up hot The green freshness brings everything alive

Save

The smoked kielbasa is hands down my favorite part Growing up my dad would slice it thin and sear it for breakfast on weekends so now every time I add it to this dish I get those same cozy vibes My family always gathers in the kitchen whenever they smell that first sizzle

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave This dish does not freeze well once mixed because of the creamy sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of kielbasa any smoked sausage works or try cooked chicken for a lighter option For pasta stick to short shapes like penne farfalle or fusilli If you want to use evaporated milk it makes the sauce extra silky White cheddar or Monterey Jack also melt beautifully

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a meal all by itself but a side of quickly sautéed greens or a crisp salad makes it even better A piece of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy sauce If making for a crowd offer more scallions crumbled bacon or hot sauce on the side

Cultural Context

Smoked sausage and pasta skillets like this draw from classic Midwestern suppers and European sausage recipes The dish blends convenience and comfort so you get that old school homey feel with modern speed My Polish grandmother always kept smoked sausage in her freezer ready to add to all sorts of dishes

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, turkey or chicken sausage works well and still delivers great flavor. Choose your preferred variety for a smoky or spicy touch.

→ Which pasta shapes work best in this dish?

Small shapes like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal. They hold up well and capture the sauce for each bite.

→ Is it possible to make this meal ahead?

Definitely. Prepare ahead and reheat gently to keep the cheese creamy and the pasta tender.

→ Can I make this richer or lighten it up?

Use heavy cream for extra richness, or swap with milk for a lighter result. The dish adapts easily to your taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk if needed.