What to pair with kielbasa for dinner?

Kielbasa pairs beautifully with carbs like pasta, rice, or potatoes. In this dish, pasta is simmered right alongside it, but you can also serve it with roasted veggies, green beans, or a garden salad for balance.

Do one pot pasta recipes really work?

Yes! One pot pastas work wonderfully when the liquid and starch ratios are balanced. Cooking pasta in broth and sauce allows it to soak up flavor while reducing dishwashing win-win.

What’s the difference between smoked sausage and kielbasa?

Smoked sausage is a broader category. Kielbasa, typically Polish, has a signature smoky-garlicky flavor and chunky texture. It's a type of smoked sausage but with a distinct regional identity.

Is kielbasa the same as Ukrainian sausage?

Not exactly. While both are smoked, Ukrainian sausage (kovbasa) uses different spices. Kielbasa is usually garlickier and milder. Both work well in pasta recipes, though their flavor notes differ.

One Pot Kielbasa Pasta – 30-Min Creamy Dinner Recipe!

Description

This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, 30-minute dinner made in a single skillet with smoky sausage, tender pasta, and melted cheddar. Easy, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lb smoked kielbasa or turkey/chicken sausage, sliced 1/4 inch thick

1.5 cups diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes

8 oz dry pasta (small pasta like penne)

1/2 cup milk or heavy cream

1/2 tsp salt and pepper each

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Add olive oil to a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.

2. Fry the smoked kielbasa and onions until lightly browned.

3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, milk or cream, pasta, salt, and pepper.

5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

6. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

7. Top with remaining cheese, cover until melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.

Notes

Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Double the recipe for larger families or leftovers it reheats beautifully.

Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini work best.

For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One Pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 740mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 80mg