One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food made easy. Juicy sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce come together in a single pot for a dinner that’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make. No draining pasta, no extra pans, and minimal cleanup just big flavor with very little effort.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want something cozy and filling without spending hours in the kitchen, this one pot pasta delivers creamy, cheesy goodness every time. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a regular because it’s reliable, customizable, and loved by everyone at the table.

If you enjoy meals that feel indulgent but are practical for everyday cooking, this one pot cheesy sausage pasta is exactly what you need.

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

What Is One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta?

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is a stovetop meal where pasta cooks directly in a seasoned liquid along with sausage and aromatics. As the pasta cooks, it releases starches that help thicken the sauce naturally. Cheese is added at the end to create a creamy, cohesive dish without the need for heavy cream or complicated steps.

Compared to traditional pasta dishes, this recipe is:

• Faster to prepare
• Made with fewer dishes
• Rich and creamy without being heavy
• Easy to customize with vegetables or spices

It’s a modern comfort food classic that combines convenience with bold, satisfying flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot = minimal cleanup
• Creamy, cheesy, and filling
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Family friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Easy to customize with what you have

If you love easy dinners like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage or Easy Pierogi Casserole with Sausage, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

How This Recipe Works

• Sausage releases flavorful fat that builds the base
• Pasta cooks directly in the sauce for maximum flavor
• Starch from pasta thickens the sauce naturally
• Cheese melts smoothly into the hot pasta
• One-pot cooking locks in moisture and taste

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 12 oz smoked or Italian sausage, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Liquid

• 12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk

Cheese

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan

Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

• Spinach or kale
• Bell peppers
• Mushrooms
• Fresh parsley or basil

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Sausage: Smoked sausage adds bold flavor; Italian sausage gives more spice.
• Pasta: Short shapes work best for even cooking.
• Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.
• Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest texture.
• Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth works too.

How to Make One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Total Time: About 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Add sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides.
Remove sausage and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquid

Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, milk, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Sausage

Return sausage to the pot.

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Garnish with herbs or red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips for the Best One Pot Pasta

• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
• Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting
• Don’t overcook the pasta
• Remove from heat before adding cheese
• Add a splash of milk if sauce thickens too much

Flavor Variations

Spicy Version

Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.

Veggie Loaded

Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Garlic Parmesan

Use parmesan and extra garlic.

Tex Mex Twist

Add pepper jack cheese and smoked paprika.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead

• Best served fresh, but reheats well

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days

Reheating

• Reheat on stovetop or microwave
• Add milk or broth to loosen sauce

Serving Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread
• Pair with a simple green salad
• Add roasted vegetables on the side
• Sprinkle with extra cheese before serving

This dish works well as a weeknight dinner, potluck meal, or cozy family meal.

Nutritional Notes (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 480–550
• Protein: 22–26g
• Carbs: 45–50g
• Fat: 22–25g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding cheese over high heat
• Using too little liquid
• Overcooking pasta
• Skipping seasoning early
• Not stirring occasionally

FAQs About One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, but monitor liquid and cooking time closely.

Can I make this without milk?
Yes. Use extra broth, but sauce will be less creamy.

What sausage works best?
Smoked sausage or Italian sausage both work well.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is possible, but texture is best fresh.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a large pot and stir frequently.

Conclusion

This One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta is creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. With bold sausage flavor, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich cheesy sauce — all made in one pot — it’s a dinner recipe you’ll reach for again and again.

If you love easy dinners like Easy Lasagna Cups or Cheesy Tomato White Bean Bake, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Save this One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta for a creamy, cozy dinner that’s fast, filling, and perfect for busy nights.