Introduction
Kielbasa pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together smoky sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. This satisfying recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or quick family dinners. With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy a creamy tomato-based one-pan meal that’s sure to impress. Kielbasa pasta is not only quick and easy—it’s a comforting classic in the making.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta dish is quick to cook, ready in just 30 minutes.
You only need basic ingredients already in your pantry.
It offers a creamy texture and bold flavors.
Easily adaptable with different vegetables or proteins.
Perfect for weeknight meals or casual dinners with guests.
Recipe Origins
This recipe takes inspiration from Central European cuisine, where kielbasa sausage is a common staple. Blended with pasta and fresh vegetables, it transforms into a modern American comfort food. The one-pan approach makes it perfect for quick family dinners, reflecting the heartiness of Polish dishes with the convenience of everyday cooking.
Ingredients
8 oz dried pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
14 oz kielbasa sausage sliced
1/2 small onion sliced
2 bell peppers sliced
3 garlic cloves sliced
1 lb fresh tomatoes diced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
1- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
2- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic for 5 minutes until soft and aromatic.
4- Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Pour in broth and simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
5- Return kielbasa to the skillet and mix to coat with the sauce. Add a bit of pasta water if needed to loosen.
6- Add cooked pasta and toss to combine. Tear in fresh basil leaves and stir gently before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 520
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 940mg
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 20 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid repeated reheating. To freeze, use a sealed container and consume within 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Grilled vegetables
Roasted red potatoes
Tomato basil bruschetta
Common Mistakes
Overcrowding the pan: prevents browning of the sausage
Skipping pasta water: reduces sauce adhesion
Overcooking vegetables: leads to mushy texture
Not seasoning enough: causes bland flavor
Adding basil too early: weakens fresh aroma
Recipe Variations
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta
Low Dairy: Swap broth for coconut milk
Spicy: Use chorizo instead of kielbasa
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms or spinach
Fruity Twist: Include diced peaches or apricots
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prepare and reheat with added broth for best texture. - What pasta works best?
Short pasta like rigatoni or penne clings to the sauce better. - How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Cook al dente and mix with sauce just before serving. - Can kids eat this?
Absolutely. It’s flavorful without being overly spicy. - How spicy is this dish?
It’s mildly spicy, adjustable with crushed red pepper.
Conclusion
Kielbasa pasta delivers bold flavors, creamy sauce, and weeknight ease in one satisfying dish. Its blend of smoky sausage, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re prepping ahead or serving hot off the stove, this one-pan dinner will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
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