When the day feels like it’s dragging and dinner needs to be both effortless and satisfying, this one pot sausage and pasta steps in like a welcome friend. It’s the kind of meal you can start without a lot of fuss, and before you know it, the kitchen fills with the smell of garlic, tomatoes, and a little hint of spice. You might find yourself stirring the pot while half-watching a show, or maybe even glancing out the window, distracted by the fading light. It’s simple but cozy, the kind of food that makes you glad to slow down just a little.
I remember the first time I made it—almost forgot the parsley at the end because I was already thinking about what glass of wine to pour. The pasta was tender, the sausage perfectly browned, and the sauce had just the right kick. It’s not fancy, but it’s exactly what you want when you’re hungry and the clock is ticking. Sometimes, I think the best meals are the ones that don’t require a lot of attention but still fill you up with warmth.
- Everything cooks in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax.
- Balanced flavors with a mild heat that can be adjusted if you prefer it softer or spicier.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point; no complicated steps or fancy ingredients.
- Comforting enough for dinner but easy enough for a quick lunch, too.
If you’re not sure about sausage, feel free to swap in another protein or even a plant-based option, though I haven’t tried all substitutions myself.
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One Pot Sausage and Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful one pot sausage and pasta dish that combines savory sausage, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups chicken broth
8 ounces penne pasta
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the penne pasta to the pot and stir to submerge the pasta in the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Using a deep, heavy-bottomed pot helps everything cook evenly, and you don’t need to fuss over multiple pans. I usually like to serve this with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread if I’m feeling a bit indulgent. Sometimes, I toss in a handful of spinach near the end for a little extra color and nutrients—though it’s definitely optional. Another idea I’m curious to try is swapping the penne for rigatoni or even fusilli, but don’t hold me to it just yet.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge for a couple of days and reheats nicely on the stove or in the microwave. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out.
Is it spicy? There’s a gentle kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can always leave them out or add more depending on your taste.
What if I don’t have Italian sausage? Ground pork or turkey could work, but the flavor will shift. Try seasoning it with some fennel and garlic to get closer.
Make this one pot sausage and pasta when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s easy, hearty, and just the right kind of satisfying.