One Pot Kielbasa Pasta

Name: One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional); Fresh parsley (for garnish)

By: ALICE PUCK | Published onFebruary 15, 2026

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta served in a bowl with fresh herbs.

Dinner Recipes

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One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and convenience. I first tried making this meal on a hectic weeknight when I needed something quick yet filling. It became an instant favorite in my household! The combination of savory kielbasa, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta works wonders, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or when hosting friends. Plus, with minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pot method, it’s a win-win for busy cooks.

Reasons You’ll Love This Dish

There are so many reasons to whip up One Pot Kielbasa Pasta. First, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. This dish is wallet-friendly, requiring only a handful of affordable ingredients. It also has a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a foolproof option for family meals. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or something to impress at a weekend gathering, this pasta dish fits the bill perfectly.

"I made this One Pot Kielbasa Pasta on a whim for my family, and it vanished in minutes! So creamy and delicious — it’s going into my weekly rotation!"

How this Recipe Comes Together

Preparing One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a breeze. You’ll start by cooking the kielbasa until it’s beautifully browned, then toss in some fresh garlic and onions for added flavor. The magic happens when you combine everything in one pot — cooking the pasta directly in the savory broth and cream creates a delightfully creamy sauce. With easy steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

What You’ll Need

To create this tasty dish, gather the following ingredients:

12 oz penne or rotini pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to customize your ingredients! You can swap in different types of pasta or try turkey sausage for a lighter option. Also, consider adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the dish.

Directions to Follow

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned.
Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a light simmer.
Add the pasta, stirring before covering the pot. Let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta reaches al dente.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has become creamy. Then, add in the shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted.
Season the dish with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Optional: top with extra grated Parmesan for that extra cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some thoughtful pairings. Consider serving it alongside a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Warm, crusty bread is fantastic for soaking up the sauce, while a glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, top each bowl with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When it’s time to enjoy your pasta again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Pro Chef Tips

Avoid overcooking the pasta: It’s key to stir occasionally and check for al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy.
Cheese choices: If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try adding Gouda cheese. Experiment with different cheese combinations for varied taste.
Add a protein punch: For an extra protein boost, consider tossing in some cooked chicken or shrimp along with the vegetables.

Creative Twists

Feel free to personalize your One Pot Kielbasa Pasta! Consider incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for added crunch and nutrition. You can also play with the spices — try Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean vibe or a sprinkle of Cajun spice for a Southern twist. For a more ketogenic-friendly version, swap pasta for cauliflower rice!

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for One Pot Kielbasa Pasta?

The total prep and cooking time for this dish is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for busy nights.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! This recipe is flexible, so feel free to substitute with turkey sausages, chicken sausages, or even a veggie option for a lighter meal.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up your Kielbasa Pasta, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and replace heavy cream with a lighter milk or plant-based cream.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap out the kielbasa for your favorite plant-based sausage and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Keep the amounts the same for a delicious vegetarian version!

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes! Transfer the cooled leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level can easily be adjusted by omitting the optional smoked paprika or adding more crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

What’s the best way to reheat the pasta?

Reheat your One Pot Kielbasa Pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I add different vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to add spinach, peas, bell peppers, or any of your favorite vegetables to boost the nutritional content and flavor. Just toss them in with the pasta during cooking.

With its creamy sauce, savory kielbasa, and comforting pasta, One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is bound to become your next go-to recipe. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!