Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta combines smoky kielbasa, creamy Parmesan, roasted red peppers, and penne for a quick, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
You know how some recipes just sneak up on you? Like, you don’t plan for them to become a thing, but suddenly they’re your go-to whenever you’re in a pinch. That’s exactly what happened with Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta.
It started on one of those chaotic weeknights—you know the ones where everyone’s hungry and you’re standing in front of the fridge wondering, “What in the world am I going to make?” There was a pack of kielbasa leftover from a weekend cookout, a sad-looking jar of roasted red peppers, and some penne I’d been meaning to use up. I tossed it all together, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best.
And wow—just wow. The smoky kielbasa paired with that creamy Parmesan sauce? Absolute magic. My kids couldn’t get enough, and my husband said, “You should write this one down.” (High praise coming from him.) Now it’s one of those meals I rely on when I want something easy but still so good it feels like a treat.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Recipe?
So, what makes this recipe worth your time? Let me count the ways:
- One-Pot Wonder: Who doesn’t love fewer dishes? This recipe keeps cleanup easy.
- Smoky Meets Creamy: The kielbasa’s bold flavor balances perfectly with the rich, cheesy sauce.
- Quick Comfort: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist this one.
- Flexible Ingredients: You can tweak it based on what you’ve got in the pantry or fridge.
Ingredient Notes:
Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role. Here’s why they’re awesome:
- Kielbasa: Smoky and savory, it’s the heart of this dish. I usually go for turkey kielbasa, but pork is just as tasty.
- Penne Pasta: Its shape catches the creamy sauce perfectly. Sub in rotini or shells if that’s what you’ve got.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts like a dream. Skip the pre-grated stuff—it just doesn’t have the same magic.
- Roasted Red Peppers: They add a sweet, tangy flavor that makes the dish feel a little fancy.
- Chicken Stock + Cream: Together, they create a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
- Garlic and Onion: The ultimate duo for adding depth and aroma.
How To Make Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta?
This dish is so simple, but the payoff is huge. Let’s break it down:
- Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces on a diagonal (because why not make it look fancy?). Heat some olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven and add the kielbasa in a single layer. Let it brown for about 2 minutes per side. Set it aside, but don’t clean the pan—you’ll need those crispy bits for flavor.
- Step 2: Sauté the Onions: Add a little more olive oil to the pot if needed, then toss in the diced onions. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. As they cook, use your spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot—those little pieces are gold. Stir for about 2 minutes, or until the onions soften and start to smell amazing.
- Step 3: Cook the Pasta: Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, then add the dry penne. Stir everything together, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 minutes. Give it a stir halfway through to make sure nothing sticks.
- Step 4: Bring It All Together: Once the pasta is tender, toss the roasted red peppers and browned kielbasa back into the pot. Stir to combine, then cover for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Step 5: Add the Cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan. Stir gently until it melts into the sauce, turning everything creamy and irresistible.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it up hot, and watch it disappear in minutes.
Storage Options
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce—it tends to thicken as it cools. Unfortunately, freezing isn’t ideal for this one. Creamy sauces and freezers? Not the best combo.
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Variations and Substitutions
Feel like switching it up? Here’s how you can make this dish your own:
- Add Some Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up.
- Try a Different Protein: Swap the kielbasa for smoked sausage, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
- More Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or peas would be great additions.
- Gluten-Free: Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Easy fix!
- Cheese Swap: Gruyère or sharp cheddar could add a fun twist.
What to Serve with Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta?
This dish is a showstopper on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce.
- Simple Salad: A crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a nice balance.
- Roasted Veggies: Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini are great options.
- Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Grigio or a bold Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Kind of! You can prep the kielbasa and sauce, but cook the pasta fresh—it makes a big difference.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely. Rotini, rigatoni, or even shells work just as well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
Save some pasta water! A splash can work wonders if the sauce needs thinning.
So, what do you think? Is Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta calling your name yet? It’s smoky, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make. Let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your take on it. And don’t forget to grab a second helping before everyone else does!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces turkey or pork kielbasa pre-cooked
- 1 cup yellow onion finely diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups dry penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces roasted red peppers drained and roughly chopped
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley minced
Instructions
Prepare the Kielbasa
- Slice the kielbasa diagonally into 1-inch pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Arrange the kielbasa in a single layer and sauté for approximately 2 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the cooked kielbasa to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Onions
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same Dutch oven. Add the diced onions, salt, and black pepper. Stir frequently and cook for about 2 minutes or until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Cook the Pasta
- Pour the chicken stock and heavy cream into the pot. Stir to combine, then add the dry penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a lid and cook over medium heat for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Add the Kielbasa and Peppers
- Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot, along with the chopped roasted red peppers. Stir to incorporate the ingredients evenly. Cover the pot and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.
Add the Cheese
- Remove the pot from heat. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle freshly minced parsley over the dish before serving. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best texture and flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
