Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Creamy smoked sausage pasta is a quick, comforting dinner packed with kielbasa, rich tomato sauce, and Parmesan. Ready in just 30 minutes!

Imagine a Tuesday evening; the kitchen buzzes with the chaos of a busy weeknight, yet a delicious aroma wafts through the air, signaling dinner’s nearly ready. The centerpiece is a delectable Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta, a dish replete with tender slices of kielbasa enveloped in a creamy sauce of tomato and heavy cream, generously sprinkled with cheddar cheese. This recipe has become a staple in many households due to its simplicity and the comfort it delivers after a long day. The leftovers only intensify in flavor, making the meal just as tasty the next day.

The quick preparation time, taking no more than 30-minutes, makes this pasta dish a dream for anyone who values both time and taste. With ingredients that are likely already in your pantry—from canned tomatoes to dried pasta and a stock of smoked sausage—this meal is convenient and versatile. Whether you add more veggies or a dash of seasoning, the pasta can be tailored to suit any palate, ensuring that each dish is flavorful and satisfying. As you slice into the sausage and mix it through the creamy, garlicky base, each bite reminds you of the serendipity in culinary creativity.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Quick and Convenient:

• Perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Assembles in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those evenings when you need a quick solution.

Minimal Cleanup Required:

• Only requires a cutting board and a can opener, minimizing kitchen mess.
• Leaves very few dishes to wash, allowing more time for relaxation after dinner.

Family-Friendly:

• A hearty, creamy dish that satisfies both adults and kids.
• Known for being a kid-friendly meal with its mild flavors and creamy texture.

Versatile and Adaptable:

• Easily adapted to include various types of sausages or additional ingredients from your pantry or fridge.
• Great for using leftovers and enhancing the flavors with whatever staples you have.

Comfort Food at Its Best:

• Combines savory sauce, creamy texture, and hearty kielbasa for a comforting meal.
• Serves as a delightful comfort food that brings the family together around the dinner table.

Practical Tips for Making Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Ingredient Flexibility:

• Utilize any pasta—from rotini to penne—depending on what’s in your pantry.
• Feel free to experiment with different sausages to find your family’s favorite combination.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who enjoy an extra touch of flavor.

Ingredients

Pasta and Protein:

• 12 Oz Kielbasa (cut into 1/4-inch thick rounds)
• 16 Oz box of pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)

Sauce Base:

• 2 TBSP butter
• 2 TBSP minced garlic (about 4-5 cloves)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• (2) 8 Oz cans of tomato sauce
• 3 TBSP tomato paste

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust as needed)
• Dried parsley (optional garnish)

Cheese:

• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Tip: Choose a high-quality smoked kielbasa and fresh Parmesan for the best flavor.

Directions to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Prepare the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 TBSP of butter. Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges are golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.

Pro Tip: Searing the sausage adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low in the same skillet and add the minced garlic. Stir frequently for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the 3 TBSP of tomato paste and cook for another minute to enhance its rich flavor. Slowly pour in the 2 cans of tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Add Cream and Sausage

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy whipping cream while stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the cooked kielbasa back to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. For a thinner sauce, stir in the reserved pasta water splash.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat each piece in the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix until it melts completely, creating a velvety texture.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley for a fresh pop of color. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Reserved Pasta Water: Adding pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta and creates a silkier consistency.
• Cheese Tip: Avoid pre-grated Parmesan, as it may not melt as smoothly.

Tips for Variations, Substitutions, and Modifications

• Meat Alternatives: Replace kielbasa with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even spicy chorizo for a bold twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Lighter Version: Use whole-grain pasta and replace heavy cream with a lighter cream alternative or evaporated milk.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

What to Serve With

• Warm garlic breadsticks or crusty bread
• A simple green salad (Pico de Gallo) with balsamic dressing
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
• Steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthier side

The Best Side Dishes for Sausage Pasta

If you want to round out your meal, here are some delicious options to serve alongside creamy sausage pasta:

• Garden Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned with olive oil and garlic for a warm, hearty side.
• Red Lobster-Style Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery, and indulgent—a perfect complement to the dish.

More Smoked Sausage Recipes to Try

We love using smoked sausage for its quick, flavorful versatility. Here are some must-try recipes:

• Sheet Pan Oven-Baked Sausage and Peppers: A simple, one-pan dinner with bold flavors.
• Cajun Sausage Alfredo Pasta: A spicy, creamy twist on a pasta classic.
• Potato Casserole with Andouille Sausage: Layers of cheesy potatoes and smoky sausage—comfort food at its best.

These dishes are quick, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying meals on busy weeknights!

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to maintain its creamy texture.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for cooking sausage and sauce
• Slotted spoon
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife for slicing kielbasa