Description
Smoky kielbasa, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all cook together in one pot for a delicious weeknight meal that’s satisfying, simple, and crave-worthy.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp olive oil
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14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
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½ onion, diced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 cup milk
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8 oz uncooked penne or rotini pasta
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1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the kielbasa:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté aromatics:
In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add liquids and pasta:
Pour in chicken broth, milk, undrained tomatoes, and uncooked pasta. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Cook the pasta:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5️⃣ Add cheeses and kielbasa:
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the kielbasa to the pot and stir to combine.
6️⃣ Garnish and serve:
Top with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Notes
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Add spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
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Use spicy kielbasa for a heat kick.
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Leftovers reheat well and make a great lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min