Description

A rich and comforting one-pan pasta dish made with smoked sausage, creamy sauce, and gooey mozzarella. Perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make.

Ingredients

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced

12 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 9–11 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
Stir in shredded mozzarella until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the drained pasta and toss until well coated. Add a splash of broth or pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Swap penne for rigatoni or rotini if desired.

Add spinach at the end for extra color and nutrients.

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to lighten it up.

A blend of mozzarella and parmesan adds a sharper flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 65 mg