Name: One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 pound Smoked Kielbasa or Turkey/Chicken Sausage, sliced 1/4 inch thick; 1.5 cups Diced Onion; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 3 cups Pasta (such as penne or rotini); 4 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (optional); Salt and Pepper to taste; Fresh Parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious, fuss-free dinner that brings the whole family together, look no further than this One Pot Kielbasa Pasta! Imagine biting into tender pasta with smoky kielbasa, all smothered in a savory sauce and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution to a busy weeknight, when you crave something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Did you know the origins of kielbasa date back centuries to Polish kitchens, where it was a staple for hearty, comforting meals? This recipe carries on that tradition—with an easy, modern twist!

What makes One Pot Kielbasa Pasta so special is its one-pan simplicity. There’s minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and everyone at the table is happy. If you’re a fan of my Cheesy Chicken Skillet, you’ll find this dish just as easy and crowd-pleasing, with a smoky-sausage spin. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll be adding this to your regular dinner rotation. Ready to dive in?

What is One Pot Kielbasa Pasta?

Why is it called One Pot Kielbasa Pasta? Well, it’s all in the name: you only need one pot to cook everything—no mountains of dishes waiting for you afterward! Kielbasa, that delightfully smoky sausage, takes center stage here. Pasta swoops in as the cozy backdrop, soaking up all the flavor. Ever wondered, “Can a dinner really be this easy and still taste so good?” The answer is yes! As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but one bite of this pasta might just make everyone fall in love. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for? Dig in and discover why this dish is a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This

This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is truly a weeknight winner! The main highlight? Smoky kielbasa paired with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a mouthwatering, flavor-packed sauce. Not only is it incredibly quick to make, it’s also a real money-saver. You can easily whip up a big, satisfying batch at home for a fraction of the price of takeout—especially if you use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Topping it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe a little shredded cheese brings all the flavors together and adds a pop of freshness. If you like my Creamy Sausage Alfredo Bake, think of this as its one-pot, weeknight-friendly cousin. Why not give them both a try? You might just find a new go-to dinner recipe!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Get ready for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious! One Pot Kielbasa Pasta combines classic comfort with bold, smoky flavors—and the best part is, you only dirty one pot. The prep is minimal, and the result is a creamy, hearty dinner that everyone adores. You’ll have this family-friendly meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something tasty without the stress.

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta in a skillet with browned sausage, tender noodles, and fresh parsley on top

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound smoked kielbasa or turkey/chicken sausage, sliced 1/4 inch thick
1.5 cups diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups pasta (such as penne or rotini)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add your sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and some of the edges are slightly crispy.
Stir in the diced onions and let them sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until softened and fragrant. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.
Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and the diced tomatoes (if using). Give everything a good stir, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the pasta sit uncovered for a few minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce.
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Spoon into bowls and enjoy with your favorite sides!

What to Serve One Pot Kielbasa Pasta With

This pasta is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Fresh garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Want to keep dinner simple? Pair this dish with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a tangy cucumber salad. For drinks, a glass of iced tea or a citrusy lemonade always hits the spot, and for the adults, a refreshing glass of white wine complements the smoky sausage flavors beautifully.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra flavor, brown the kielbasa until the edges are nice and crispy. It adds an irresistible texture and depth.
Trying to lighten things up? Swap out smoked kielbasa for turkey or chicken sausage; you won’t lose that great smoky flavor.
If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce with the garlic.
Don’t stir the pasta too often as it cooks; just give it a quick mix every few minutes to avoid sticking.
If you want an even creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese right at the end.
Avoid overcooking the pasta. Once it’s al dente, remove the pot from heat to keep the texture perfect.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce and microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until fully warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for future meals—simply cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding extra broth as needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! Andouille, chorizo, or Italian sausage all work wonderfully and will each bring a unique flavor.

Do I have to use diced tomatoes?
No, the tomatoes are entirely optional. Skip them if you prefer a more classic creamy sauce or substitute with a splash of tomato sauce for a touch of color.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best since they cook evenly and soak up the sauce.

Can I add extra veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or even peas. Just toss them in along with the onions.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and makes a fantastic lunch or quick dinner throughout the week. Just remember to store properly for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is that magical recipe you’ll reach for again and again: it’s quick, budget-friendly, and packs a punch of smoky, savory flavor in every bite. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a weeknight dream come true that the whole family will rave about. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or big appetites, this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction with every forkful. Give it a try, and don’t forget to explore more easy recipes on the blog for more quick, hearty dinners. Happy cooking!