A Summery, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Savior
There’s a particular magic in summer cooking—bright flavors, minimal cleanup, and meals that bring everyone to the table with smiles. This One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Pasta recipe is a tribute to just that. Inspired by my nonna’s love for simplicity and flavor, with a modern fusion twist, this dish comes together effortlessly in a single pan, blending savory smoked sausage, creamy cheese, and a garden burst of summer vegetables.
I first made a version of this dish after a sun-drenched trip to southern Italy, where smoky cured meats and fresh vegetables ruled the tables. The fusion part? A nod to American-style creamy one-pot meals—hearty, quick, and incredibly comforting. This recipe is the best of both worlds: European flavor meets weeknight practicality.
🌞 Why You’ll Love This Recipe One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Pasta
• One pan = easy cleanup
• Ready in 30 minutes
• Bursting with flavor
• Perfect for family dinners or summer gatherings
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or cheeses
🕓 Prep & Cook Time
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings
• Serves 4
🛒 Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (14 oz) smoked sausage, sliced into ½ inch rounds (turkey, pork, or plant-based work great)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small red onion, sliced thin
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
• 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or parsley)
• Optional: red chili flakes for heat
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, add garlic, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and starting to soften. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Pasta & Liquids
Pour in the broth and cream, then stir in the uncooked pasta. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Bring on the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cooked sausage and shredded cheese. Mix until everything is creamy and melty. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil and a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of kick. Serve hot, right from the pan!
🧀 Ingredient Tips & Variations
• Cheese: Mix in a bit of Parmesan or fontina for added depth.
• Vegetables: Use summer squash, spinach, or even corn for seasonal variety.
• Sausage Swap: Try chorizo for a spicy Spanish twist or kielbasa for a heartier bite.
• Make it vegetarian: Use a plant-based sausage and veggie broth.
If you’re as obsessed with the bold, savory flavor of smoked sausage as I am, you’re in luck—this recipe is just the beginning. From grilled skewers to rustic stews, sausage is one of the most versatile proteins around. For more inspiration, check out this incredible roundup of sausage recipes by Bon Appétit. Whether you’re experimenting with different types of sausage or exploring global flavor profiles, there’s a world of deliciousness waiting.
💡 Summer Pairing Ideas
Pair this cheesy pasta with:
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Chilled rosé or a citrusy iced tea
💬 Reader Tips & Feedback
“This was a total hit with my family! So creamy and flavorful, and the cleanup was a breeze!” – Emily K.
“I added spinach at the end and used spicy sausage—delish!” – Jordan M.
🧽 Cleanup Note
Since everything happens in one pan, you’re looking at less than five minutes of cleanup. That’s more time for enjoying sunset dinners and less time at the sink.
❤️ Let’s Make It Together!
This One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta is more than a meal—it’s a weeknight hero, a crowd-pleaser, and a testament to how summer cooking should feel: lighthearted, effortless, and full of joy.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to see your twist! Snap a photo, tag me on Instagram, or drop your variation in the comments below. Let’s inspire more joyful cooking together!
Try These Next
If you loved the creamy, savory vibe of this one-pan wonder, you’ll definitely want to check out:
• One Pan Marry Me Tortellini – A luscious, crowd-pleasing pasta dish that’s also made in just one pan!
• Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta – A bold and cheesy dinner option that brings the comfort food vibes strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells work perfectly. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted to your chosen pasta’s needs—add a little more broth if needed.
What if I don’t have smoked sausage?
You can substitute with cooked chicken, bacon, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. For a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to revive the creaminess.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cream (like oat or coconut) and shredded vegan cheese. You might need to tweak the seasoning to balance the flavors.
What vegetables can I substitute in summer?
Great options include summer squash, fresh corn, spinach, or even grilled eggplant. Choose what’s fresh and seasonal.
Conclusion
Summer meals are all about simplicity, joy, and big flavor—and this One Pan Cheesy Smoked Sausage & Pasta ticks all the boxes. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner and tasty enough for weekend guests. The fusion of bold sausage, creamy cheese, and garden-fresh veggies creates a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss.
Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a cozy bowl on a breezy summer evening, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite. And the best part? Only one pan to wash. That’s what I call a dinner win.
Let me know how it goes in your kitchen—and don’t forget to add your personal twist!