Best Easy Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Recipe
Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious recipe to satisfy your cravings, then this easy cheesy kielbasa pasta is the perfect choice. With its combination of smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 pound cooked pasta (penne or fusilli works well)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooked pasta and browned kielbasa to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta and sausage with the cheesy sauce.
8. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
9. Serve hot and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Now that we’ve covered the recipe, let’s answer some common questions about this delightful dish.
Q1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
A1. Absolutely! If you don’t have kielbasa on hand, you can substitute it with any other smoked sausage or even Italian sausage.
Q2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2. Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne and fusilli work well with this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other shapes too.
Q3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3. Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the pasta fresh.
Q4. Can I freeze this dish?
A4. While it’s possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Q5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A5. Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to incorporate more veggies into the dish.
Q6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
A6. Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda or mozzarella can be great alternatives to cheddar.
Q7. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A7. Yes, you can omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Q8. Can I make this dish spicy?
A8. If you enjoy a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some cayenne pepper for an extra punch.
Q9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A9. Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Simply chop them and use them in place of canned tomatoes.
This easy cheesy kielbasa pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone craving for more. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can be whipped up in no time. So grab your apron and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!