One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (12 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz whole wheat bow tie pasta
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into rounds, mince the garlic, and finely chop the onion.
- Sauté Sausage and Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add Pasta: Add the dry whole wheat bow tie pasta to the pot, ensuring that it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Season: Sprinkle black pepper over the mixture, adjusting the amount to taste. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the pasta simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with Cream: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Add Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Serve the smoked sausage pasta hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Enjoy: Dive into the hearty and flavorful one-pot smoked sausage pasta, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the year
Tips to Make One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta
- Choose Quality Smoked Sausage: Opt for high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor and texture in your pasta dish. Look for sausage made with natural ingredients and robust smoky flavor.
- Variety in Sausage: Experiment with different types of smoked sausage such as Andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo to add unique flavors to your pasta dish.
- Enhance Aromatics: To deepen the flavor of your dish, consider sautéing the garlic and onion in the olive oil until they are golden brown and caramelized before adding the sausage. This extra step adds richness and complexity to the sauce.
- Customize the Sauce: Play around with the ratio of diced tomatoes to chicken broth to achieve your desired sauce consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less broth, and if you prefer a thinner sauce, add more broth.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, toss in some fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme during the simmering process. The herbs will infuse the sauce with freshness and aroma.
- Consider Pasta Alternatives: While bow tie pasta works well in this recipe, feel free to substitute it with other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti. Choose whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat and added flavor. Adjust the amount according to your preference for spiciness.
- Creamy Texture: To ensure a creamy and luscious sauce, stir the heavy cream into the pasta mixture gently and gradually to prevent curdling. Allow the cream to heat through before adding the shredded cheese.
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese adds richness and flavor to the dish, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the finished dish for a pop of color and freshness. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flair.
- Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy.
Enjoy the versatility and simplicity of this one-pot smoked sausage pasta recipe, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own variations and additions
