Description
This One Pot Cheesy Pasta and Sausage recipe is a hearty and comforting meal combining smoky sausage with tender penne pasta, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz. box Penne Pasta
- 16 oz. pkg. Smoked Sausage, sliced
- 1 (14 oz) Can Fire Roasted Tomatoes
- 2 Cups Chicken Broth
- 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- ½ Cup Milk
- 3 Green Onions, diced and divided
- 2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage and Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil, the sliced smoked sausage, and two of the diced green onions. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sausage is lightly browned and flavors begin to meld.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together, then add the penne pasta to the pot, mixing to ensure the pasta is submerged.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with the remaining diced green onion for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa or andouille for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while browning the sausage.
- Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version of the recipe.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
