One-Pot Creamy Kielbasa Pasta is a bold, comforting, and flavor-packed dish that’s as convenient as it is satisfying. Combining smoky sliced kielbasa, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based cream sauce, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty family favorite—all in one pan. Cajun seasoning and chili flakes add a subtle kick, while mascarpone and Parmesan melt into the sauce for creamy, savory depth. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: the pasta cooks directly in the tomato and chicken stock mixture, absorbing all the flavor and saving you from multiple pots and pans. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pot wonder balances spicy, creamy, and savory notes with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. It’s a rustic yet elegant dish that can be easily customized to your spice preferences or pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Simplicity: Cook everything—pasta, sauce, and sausage—in one pan.
Big, Bold Flavors: Smoky kielbasa, Cajun spice, and creamy cheese create a flavor bomb.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
Comforting and Hearty: Creamy texture with a spicy-sweet tomato base.
Perfect for Weeknights or Guests: Impressive enough for company, simple enough for everyday.

Ingredients

Olive oil (or cooking spray)
Polish smoked sausages (kielbasa) or spicy Italian sausages (sliced)
Onion (finely diced)

Cajun seasoning
Salt
Garlic cloves (minced)

Canned chopped or crushed tomatoes (with juice)
Dried pasta (rigatoni or penne)
Hot chicken stock (from a cube or prepared)

Mascarpone cheese or cream cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (chopped)

Salt and pepper to taste
Chili flakes (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Use Different Sausage: Swap kielbasa for Italian, chorizo, or vegetarian sausage alternatives.

Make it Spicier: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Swap the Cheese: Ricotta or sour cream can replace mascarpone in a pinch.
Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and confirm all packaged ingredients are gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned.

Step 2

Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and minced garlic. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the canned tomatoes and dried pasta. Pour in the hot chicken stock and stir well to combine.

Step 4

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Stir in the mascarpone and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6

Fold in chopped fresh basil. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7

Serve hot, topped with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Slice the sausage evenly so it cooks and browns uniformly.

Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Adjust liquid if needed—add a splash of water or stock if the pasta isn’t fully cooked.
Use high-quality Parmesan for the best creamy finish.

Let the pasta sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce slightly.

How to Serve

Serve hot, straight from the pot, garnished with more Parmesan and chili flakes. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own as a main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or any short pasta shape works well.

2. What if I don’t have mascarpone?

Cream cheese or ricotta are good substitutes.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based sausage and vegetable stock instead of chicken.

4. Is the dish very spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Cajun seasoning and optional chili flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your taste.

5. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers are great additions.

6. Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

It’s best to cook the pasta in the sauce for flavor, but you can stir in pre-cooked pasta and simmer for a few minutes.

7. Will the sauce thicken as it cools?

Yes, it will continue to thicken slightly as it sits.

8. How do I make the sauce richer?

Add a splash of cream or more Parmesan if you prefer a creamier sauce.

9. Can I cook this in advance?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat with a bit of stock to revive the texture.

10. What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked Polish kielbasa gives the most authentic flavor, but spicy Italian sausage adds great heat.

Conclusion

One-Pot Creamy Kielbasa Pasta is a deliciously simple recipe that brings together smoky sausage, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese in one satisfying, easy-to-make dish. It’s the perfect meal for when you need something hearty, quick, and full of flavor without the hassle of extra dishes. Whether you’re cooking for the family or whipping up a casual dinner with friends, this pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.