Instructions
- Brown the sliced sausage in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in the same pot until softened.
- Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Remove from heat, stir in the cooked sausage and mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes!
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key!
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables.
- Seafood: Use shrimp or scallops instead of sausage.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this pasta on its own, or serve it with a side salad and garlic bread. A glass of red wine or iced tea complements it perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze it? Yes, for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
- Other cheeses? Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan would all be delicious!
Enjoy!
This one-pot smoked sausage pasta is a true comfort food classic. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. Let us know how yours turns out!