Get ready to fall in love with the comforting flavor, creamy sauce, and pure ease of this One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender pasta, juicy Italian sausage, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce enveloping every bite—all bubbling away together in one pot without any fuss. This dish is the weeknight hero you’ve been craving, packing layers of zesty sausage, aromatic garlic, sweet onions, and a Divine marriage of tomato and cream. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, it’s the kind of simple, stress-free meal that everyone will request again and again.

One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something so irresistible. Each one adds its own special personality, from big bold flavors to deliciously gooey texture and a colorful burst of fresh herbs.

Italian sausage: The star of this recipe, packing rich, savory flavor; choose mild or spicy depending on your mood.
Olive oil: A touch helps brown the sausage if your pan needs it, adding depth and a subtle sheen.
Onion: Finely chopped onion brings sweetness that gently balances the sausage’s zest.
Garlic: Three cloves infuse the dish with their irresistible aroma—don’t skimp!
Diced tomatoes: A can (with juices) adds that tangy, savory backbone and makes the sauce sing.
Chicken broth: Provides savory depth, helps the pasta cook perfectly, and brings everything together.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: For the dreamiest, creamiest sauce—pick your preference for richness.
Short pasta: Penne, rotini, or shells are all wonderful for catching bits of sausage and silky sauce in every forkful.
Italian seasoning: Just a sprinkle elevates the whole pot with warmth and earthy flavor.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Bring a pleasant kick if you like a little heat in your pasta.
Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, salty depth and melts into luscious creamy goodness.
Mozzarella cheese: For stretch, melt, and hearty comfort in every bite.
Salt and black pepper: Essential to bring out all the flavors—add to your taste.
Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): A shower of fresh herbs lifts the dish with color and a pop of brightness.

How to Make One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by setting a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add your sausage (remove casings if needed) and crumble it as it cooks, letting it brown thoroughly. If your sausage is a bit lean or the pan seems dry, add a drizzle of olive oil. Take your time here—browning develops deep, craveable flavor that sets the tone for this One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe.

Step 2: Soften Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, toss in the finely chopped onion. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it starts to turn soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic fragrant but not browned—this quick sauté is where the kitchen starts to smell absolutely heavenly!

Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes (juices and all), chicken broth, and your cream or half-and-half. Stir in the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Give everything a good stir and increase the heat to bring it to a gentle boil. The broth and cream are going to work magic, softening the pasta and fusing all those fabulous flavors into one knockout sauce.

Step 4: Cover and Cook

Turn the heat to low, cover your pot, and let it all simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir now and then, making sure nothing sticks and every piece of pasta gets its turn in the sauce. When the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens slightly, you’re almost there—just resist sneaking too many tastes!

Step 5: Stir in Cheeses and Rest

Remove your pot from the heat and immediately stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella. The cheese will melt right in, transforming your sauce into a perfectly creamy, glossy blanket over sausage and pasta. Let the One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe rest for three to five minutes—it will thicken a little more as it sits, setting you up for cheesy, saucy bliss.

How to Serve One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkling of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds gorgeous color and lively flavor that brightens this hearty dish. For an extra flourish, shave a little extra Parmesan over the top just before serving—the salty, nutty cheese melts enticingly and feels a bit like dining out.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with crusty garlic bread, a leafy green salad, or even simple roasted vegetables. Since the One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe is so rich and satisfying, you don’t need much, but these sides bring a lovely balance and make dinner feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your pasta in wide, shallow bowls to show off all that sauce and those cheesy swirls. For family gatherings, make a big steaming pot and let everyone serve themselves. Or, spoon into ramekins, top with more cheese, and pop under the broiler until bubbly for an individual “gratin” twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully! Transfer any extra One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe into an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld, making tomorrow’s lunch just as tempting as dinner.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well: let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. (If using fresh herbs, add a sprinkle after reheating for brightness.)

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or cream—this brings the sauce back to life and keeps your One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe creamy. On the stovetop, gently rewarm in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne, rotini, and shells are classic, you can use whatever short pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on cook time and adjust if needed for different shapes or sizes.

What can I use instead of Italian sausage?

Feel free to swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless sausage substitute. Each option puts its own spin on the One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe without losing any comfort or flavor.

Will this work with dairy-free alternatives?

Yes! Try using unsweetened coconut cream or your favorite plant-based creamer in place of the heavy cream and swap in dairy-free cheeses. The end result will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.

Can I add veggies to the pasta?

Definitely—this recipe is very flexible. Stir in a couple of handfuls of spinach or sliced mushrooms during the last five minutes of cooking for extra color, nutrition, and texture.

How can I make this recipe extra spicy?

Opt for spicy Italian sausage and don’t hold back on the red pepper flakes! You can even add a drizzle of hot sauce to your bowl when serving if you love that fiery kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a meal that’s both incredibly comforting and impressively simple—especially when it’s the One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe. If you haven’t tried cooking pasta and sauce in the same pot yet, this is your sign to grab a skillet and dive in. I promise, you’re only one pot away from creamy, cheesy, weeknight happiness!

One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this comforting One-Pot Sausage Pasta, a creamy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious family dinner. With the perfect blend of Italian sausage, cheeses, and aromatic seasonings, this flavorful pasta is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)

Additional Ingredients:

1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
10 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles. If needed, add olive oil.
Cook Aromatics: Add chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add Ingredients: Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, uncooked pasta, seasonings, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce thickens slightly.
Finish: Remove from heat, stir in cheeses until melted and creamy. Let sit to thicken before serving. Garnish with basil or parsley if desired.