Penne and Smoked Sausage: A Comforting, Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor, Penne and Smoked Sausage is the perfect dish. This recipe combines tender penne pasta with smoky, savory sausage, all brought together with a rich, garlicky sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for friends and family, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. The smokiness of the sausage pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce, creating a deliciously balanced meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

I first stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a way to use up some leftover smoked sausage in the fridge. The combination of smoky sausage and pasta seemed like the perfect match, and after trying it, I was hooked! Not only is it a one-pot meal (which makes cleanup a breeze), but it’s incredibly versatile, too. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it an adaptable option for different tastes and dietary preferences.

What I love most about Penne and Smoked Sausage is that it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and ease. It’s rich and satisfying, but still quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for those busy days when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish and how to make it perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy
With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, Penne and Smoked Sausage comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up even after the busiest of days.

Hearty and Flavorful
The combination of smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful sauce makes this dish hearty and satisfying. Every bite is filled with layers of flavor—from the rich, savory sausage to the garlic and herbs in the sauce.

Customizable
Feel free to get creative with this dish. You can add your favorite vegetables, swap out the type of sausage, or make the sauce as creamy or light as you prefer. This is a dish that can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference.

One-Pot Meal
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also a one-pot wonder, meaning you can cook everything in a single pan. Less mess and less stress!

Perfect for Leftovers
Penne and Smoked Sausage tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or enjoying leftovers for lunch. The flavors have a chance to meld together overnight, making each bite even more delicious.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cook time)
Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 400
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

To make Penne and Smoked Sausage, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Main Dish:

• 12 oz penne pasta: This is the base of the dish, and penne works particularly well because its tubular shape holds the sauce nicely.
• 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille): The smoky, savory flavor of the sausage adds depth and richness to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the sausage and garlic.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a savory depth of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings aromatic richness to the sauce.
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional): Adds a bit of color and crunch, as well as a touch of sweetness.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor to help create the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce creamy and rich. You can substitute with half-and-half or milk if you prefer a lighter version.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This classic herb adds an earthy, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor of the sausage and adds a slight heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors in the dish.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, green touch and a burst of color.
• Extra grated Parmesan: For those who love an extra cheesy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: COOK THE PASTA

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes. The pasta should be al dente—tender but still firm to the bite.

Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to use later if you need to loosen the sauce. Set the cooked pasta aside.

STEP 2: COOK THE SAUSAGE

While the pasta is cooking, slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds or half-moons. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and crispy on the edges. This step helps to render out the fat from the sausage, which adds even more flavor to the dish.

Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. You may need to drain off any excess fat, depending on how greasy the sausage is.

STEP 3: SAUTÉ THE VEGETABLES

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

If you’re using bell pepper, add it now and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until it softens. The bell pepper adds a lovely touch of sweetness and a nice crunch to the dish.

STEP 4: CREATE THE SAUCE

Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Let the broth simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir until the cream is fully incorporated, making a smooth, rich sauce. Let it simmer gently for another 2 minutes to thicken slightly.

Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, and smoked paprika. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and well-seasoned.

STEP 5: COMBINE EVERYTHING

Add the cooked smoked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine. Let the sausage simmer in the sauce for a few more minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Next, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. You want a creamy consistency that clings to the pasta.

STEP 6: SERVE AND ENJOY!

Once everything is combined and heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Penne and Smoked Sausage hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve

With a Side Salad
This dish is rich and filling on its own, but a simple side salad can add a refreshing contrast to the smoky sausage and creamy pasta. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette would be the perfect pairing.

With Garlic Bread
Serve Penne and Smoked Sausage with a side of warm, crispy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

With Roasted Vegetables
To balance out the richness of the dish, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. The caramelized vegetables add a savory, slightly sweet contrast to the sausage and pasta.

Additional Tips

1. Use High-Quality Sausage: The sausage is the star of this dish, so choose a high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor. Kielbasa, andouille, or even chicken sausage all work well in this recipe.
2. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish. Mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes all work wonderfully and will add more color and texture to the dish.
3. Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. This will infuse the sauce with a subtle spiciness that complements the smoky sausage.
4. Creamy or Light? If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For an even lighter version, you can skip the cream altogether and just use extra chicken broth to create a more broth-based sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Leftover Penne and Smoked Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to label and date the container for easy reference. When ready to eat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Penne and Smoked Sausage is the kind of dish that brings comfort to your table without requiring hours of preparation. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and tender pasta come together in perfect harmony, making each bite satisfying and delicious.

This dish is also highly customizable—add your favorite vegetables, swap out the sausage, or adjust the creaminess to suit your preferences. With just a few simple ingredients and a single pan, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor.

So next time you’re looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s quick and easy to make, try this Penne and Smoked Sausage recipe. You won’t regret it!

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