When weeknights get hectic, I'm always thankful for a simple meal that doesn't leave me with a sink full of dishes. This easy kielbasa pasta recipe is one of those lifesavers. It's smoky, creamy, and comes together in about 30 minutes. The pasta cooks right in the same pan with the broth and milk, which makes cleanup a breeze.
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I love serving this when I don't have the time (or energy) for a big production, but still want something hearty and comforting. The smoky sausage with the cheesy pasta hits all the right notes. If you love one-pan pasta recipes, you should also check out one pot creamy chicken pasta for another weeknight favorite.
What you'll need to make kielbasa pasta
This recipe uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Here's what you'll need:
- 14 Oz kielbasa sausage (about 1 pound)
- 1 Small onion
- 1 Tablespoon garlic, minced
- 8 Oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 14 Oz chicken broth
- ½ Cup milk
- 4 Oz cheddar cheese
- ½ Teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- ¼ Teaspoon sea salt, to taste
- 1 Tablespoon butter
Ingredient notes
- Kielbasa: Pork or beef kielbasa works well, and you can even try turkey kielbasa for a lighter version.
- Pasta: Penne is classic here, but rotini or shells also hold the sauce beautifully.
- Cheese: Cheddar makes the sauce creamy and sharp, but you could swap in Monterey Jack for something milder.
Step-by-step instructions
Cook the sausage and onion
Slice the kielbasa and onion. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the onion and kielbasa slices, letting them brown for 2-3 minutes.
Add garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the pasta
Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and dry pasta. Stir, then cover and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Finish with cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
That's it-your easy dinner is ready!
Why you'll love this recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup
- Hearty, comforting, and kid-friendly
- Flexible: swap the pasta, cheese, or even the sausage to match what you have
Tips for the best kielbasa pasta
- Slice the kielbasa into thinner rounds so it browns faster and gets that smoky edge.
- Stir the pasta every few minutes while it simmers to keep it from sticking.
- For a little spice, add red pepper flakes when you add the garlic.
Serving suggestions
This pasta makes a complete meal on its own, but here are some sides that work well:
- garlic bread for dipping into the sauce
- a simple green salad with vinaigrette
- roasted veggies like broccoli, peppers, or zucchini
Storing and reheating leftovers
If you've got leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess. A microwave works too-just heat in short intervals and stir in between.
FAQ
Yes! Smoked sausage or andouille both taste great here.
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best since it holds onto the sauce.
Swap the milk for unsweetened almond milk and use dairy-free cheese.
Not as written, but adding a pinch of chili flakes will bring heat if you like.
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A comforting pasta you'll make again and again
This Easy kielbasa pasta recipe is the kind of dinner you'll keep in your back pocket for busy nights. It's fast, comforting, and totally satisfying. Next time you're short on time but still want a warm homemade meal, give this a try-I think you'll love it as much as my family does.
📖 Recipe
Easy Kielbasa Pasta Recipe
This easy kielbasa pasta recipe is smoky, creamy, and ready in just 30 minutes. A one-pan weeknight dinner that’s hearty, comforting, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage (about 1 pound)
- 1 small onion
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 14 oz chicken broth
- ½ cup milk
- 4 oz cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Slice the kielbasa and onion.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
- Add the onion and kielbasa slices, browning for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and dry pasta. Stir, then cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste, then serve.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. For spice, add red pepper flakes with the garlic.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 servingAmount Per Serving: Calories: 420Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 880mgCarbohydrates: 32gFiber: 2gSugar: 3gProtein: 20g
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