Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Kielbasa Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe


  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Quick, easy one-pot meal featuring savory kielbasa, sweet onions, fragrant garlic, and a creamy tomato Parmesan sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle)
  • Pasta water, reserved after cooking pasta

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add kielbasa and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides (5-7 minutes). Remove kielbasa and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the skillet.
  2. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. Add diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Return kielbasa to the skillet and stir to combine. Let simmer for a few minutes to warm through. Stir in fresh parsley.
  6. While the sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  7. Drain pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss, adding pasta water a little at a time, until the sauce coats the pasta evenly and reaches your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Notes

  • Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
  • Add vegetables: Sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach with the onion and garlic.
  • Use different sausage: Italian sausage or chorizo are good substitutes.
  • Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • Add a touch of sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest brightens the flavors. Add it with the parsley.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad and crusty bread. Pair with a dry white wine. Great for meal prepping.
  • Storage Instructions: Cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes