Did You Know 83% of Home Cooks Avoid One-Pot Pasta Because They Think It’s Bland?

I used to be part of that statistic—until I discovered the magic of One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta. This dish isn’t just convenient; it’s a flavor explosion that’ll make you question every pasta rule you’ve ever followed. Imagine juicy sausage, al dente pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce all coming together in a single pot—no pre-boiling, no extra pans, just pure comfort with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student with a single burner, or just someone who believes weeknight dinners should taste like Sunday suppers, this recipe is about to become your secret weapon.

Why This One Pot Wonder Stole My Heart

There’s something almost rebellious about tossing raw pasta into a pot with broth and watching it transform into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Traditionalists might clutch their pearls, but trust me—this method works. The starch from the pasta thickens the sauce naturally, while the sausage infuses every bite with smoky depth. And let’s talk about that cheese pull—the kind that stretches halfway across the table before breaking. I first made this on a rainy Tuesday when my toddler was clinging to my leg and my patience was hanging by a thread. Twenty minutes later? We were all silent, too busy scraping our bowls to argue about nap time.

The Secret to Maximum Flavor (Without the Fuss)

Great one-pot pasta starts with layering flavors like you’re building a lasagna—every ingredient has a purpose. Browning the sausage first isn’t just for texture; those crispy bits at the bottom of the pot become the foundation of your sauce. Then comes the garlic (always more than you think), a splash of chicken broth for richness, and a generous handful of sharp cheddar that melts into the pasta like a cozy blanket. The real game-changer? A pinch of mustard powder. It sounds odd, but it cuts through the richness and makes the cheese taste cheesier. Who knew?

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta

Print Recipe

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with sausage, made in one pot for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 lb Italian sausage
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz penne pasta
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and pasta. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.

Author: Trusted Blog

One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta: A Cozy Weeknight Lifesaver

There’s something so comforting about a dish that comes together in one pot—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and that irresistible melty cheese pull we all crave. This cheesy sausage pasta is my go-to when I want something hearty, satisfying, and easy enough to whip up even on the busiest of weeknights. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table lean in for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb Italian sausage – Sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. I love the depth of flavor from the fennel seeds in sweet Italian sausage, but if you’re craving a little kick, spicy works beautifully.
1 small yellow onion, diced – The humble onion is the foundation of so many great dishes, and here it adds a subtle sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Because what’s a pasta dish without garlic? Freshly minced makes all the difference.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – Opt for fire-roasted if you can—they add a lovely smoky note.
2 cups chicken broth – Homemade is wonderful, but store-bought works just fine. It’s all about layering flavor.
1 cup heavy cream – This is where the magic happens, creating that luscious, velvety sauce.
8 oz penne pasta – Or any short pasta you have on hand. Penne holds the sauce beautifully.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – A little blend of herbs to tie everything together.
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who like a gentle warmth.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The star of the show! Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth.
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish – A pop of green makes everything prettier (and tastier).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. This usually takes about 5-6 minutes. Don’t rush this step—those crispy bits add so much flavor! Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for just 30 seconds—you’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells heavenly.

3. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—that’s pure flavor gold! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Cook the Pasta: Add the dry pasta directly to the sauce (yes, no boiling separately—this is the beauty of one-pot meals!). Stir to make sure all the pasta is submerged, then cover and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be al dente and the sauce slightly thickened.

5. Bring on the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked sausage. Now, the grand finale—sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover the pan for just 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.

Conclusion

There you have it—a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying One Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty without the fuss. The smoky sausage, tender pasta, and melty cheese come together in one pot for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ready to give it a try? Whip up this recipe and let us know how it turns out in the comments below! And if you’re craving more cozy one-pot wonders, be sure to check out our collection of easy one-pot meals for more inspiration.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rotini work great, you can use any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or even macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta’s package instructions.

Can I substitute the sausage?

Of course! If you prefer a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian twist, swap in plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meat-free version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.