Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Broccoli Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines savory smoked sausage with tender broccoli and creamy cheeses all cooked together in one pot for an easy, satisfying weeknight meal. The pasta soaks up the rich broth and milk to create a luscious sauce, while smoky sausage rounds add depth and a touch of spice from paprika. Perfect for busy evenings when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Aromatics
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Broth
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, until browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic to preserve its flavor.
- Add Liquids and Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk. Add the pasta, broccoli florets, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed by the pasta, ensuring it is perfectly cooked.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy, creating a rich, cheesy sauce coating the pasta and broccoli.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly and allow flavors to meld together for a perfect finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use pre-cut broccoli for convenience to save time during prep.
- You can substitute smoked turkey sausage or kielbasa for the smoked sausage to change up the flavor profile.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic in step 2.
