Go Back Email Link
–+ servings

One-Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

A creamy, tomato-kissed pasta dish studded with browned Italian sausage and melty cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings Can use mild or spicy sausage.
  • 1 pound short pasta (penne, rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle) Any preferred short pasta shape.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan)
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust based on desired spice level.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped For garnishing.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation

  • Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Add the sausage (removed from casings) and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook 3–5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Add the uncooked short pasta, pushing it into the liquid so it’s mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. Check for tenderness.
  • Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
  • Fold in the chopped fresh basil and serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For variations, you can use bulk Italian sausage, substitute for dairy-free options, or adjust the pasta for gluten-free. For spicier options, increase red pepper flakes or choose hot Italian sausage.