If you're on the hunt for a quick, comforting meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta One Pot Meal! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dish that combines the savory goodness of kielbasa with creamy cheddar cheese and tender penne pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is not only simple but also sure to please the whole family. Get ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the kielbasa into half-moon shaped pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, place the sliced kielbasa and dry-cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly browned, releasing some of its natural oils.
- Add chicken broth and penne pasta to the skillet, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Sprinkle garlic powder over the pasta and broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
- Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is almost tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir gently, allowing the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add frozen peas and stir to distribute evenly throughout the pasta.
- Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt completely and sauce to thicken.
- Stir once more to ensure cheese is fully incorporated and serve hot directly from the skillet.
Tips
- Sauté the Kielbasa Well: Make sure to brown the kielbasa properly to enhance its flavor. This step adds a delicious depth to your dish.
- Pasta Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. You want it to be al dente, so taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen peas for other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to add more color and nutrition to your meal.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese. This helps it melt perfectly and gives the sauce time to thicken.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 120mg
