If you are looking for a cozy, all-in-one meal that bursts with flavor and comes together effortlessly, this One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine savory Italian sausage mingling with tender pasta, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs, and cooked right in a single pot. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, satisfying, and fuss-free. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tailor to your taste buds, and the cleanup is a breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe shines because of its simple, quality ingredients that bring together beautiful flavors, textures, and colors in perfect harmony. Each element plays a role, from the spicy sausage adding richness to the vibrant tomatoes brightening every bite.
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference to give the dish its savory, meaty backbone.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing the richness of the sausage.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant kick that infuses the pasta sauce with warmth.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, undrained, 14.5 oz): Brings juiciness and acidity to harmonize the flavors.
- Tomato sauce (8 oz): Creates a smooth, luscious base for the pasta and meat.
- Pasta (12 oz, uncooked): Penne, fusilli, or similar shaped pastas work great for soaking up all the saucy goodness.
- Vegetable broth (4 cups): Ensures the pasta cooks perfectly and flavors meld without becoming dry.
- Dried basil (1 tsp): Adds herby brightness reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Deepens the herbal notes and rounds out the tomato sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup, optional): A finishing touch that introduces a salty, nutty richness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pieces of Italian sausage and cook them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step not only develops a wonderful caramelized flavor but also renders out some fat that will help cook the veggies and infuse the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together in the sausage fat until the onion softens and turns translucent, releasing its sweetness, about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the sauce to build upon.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Now comes the fun part where everything starts to come together. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, uncooked pasta, and vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so the pasta is submerged in the flavorful liquid and evenly distributed with the sausage and vegetables.
Step 4: Simmer Until Perfect
Bring the entire mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the flavorful broth and cook to tender perfection while the sauce thickens beautifully. Don’t forget to give it a stir every now and then to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
When the pasta is soft and the sauce has thickened to your liking, give the pot one last gentle stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you love extra richness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. It melts into the warm pasta adding a lovely cheesy finish.
How to Serve One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this hearty pasta dish. Fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of green and fresh aroma. A generous grating of Parmesan cheese brings that touch of indulgence that takes the flavor to new heights. For a subtle crunch, you might even sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs on top.
Side Dishes
Though filling on its own, this One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Warm, crusty bread is another fantastic side, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious tomato sauce. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables can provide a fresh, nutrient-packed accompaniment as well.
Creative Ways to Present
This dish serves beautifully straight from the pot family-style, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy the comforting vibes. For a more elegant presentation, plate individual servings and garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. You can also offer a small bowl of chili flakes on the side for friends who want to add some heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (and that can be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal. It will keep well for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy the convenience of a ready-made dinner.
Freezing
This One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe freezes nicely, making it a great option for meal prep. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. When properly sealed, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing its flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage can be a leaner alternative and will still work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be mindful of the seasoning since they are usually milder, so you might want to add a bit more herbs or spices.
What type of pasta works best in the One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe?
Penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or any short pasta with ridges are ideal because they hold the sauce beautifully. Avoid very thin pasta like angel hair, which may overcook during the simmering step.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
If you want a meat-free version, swap the sausage with plant-based sausage or sauté mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth and keep all the herbs and tomatoes for maximum flavor.
How spicy is this dish? Can I control the heat?
The spice level depends mostly on the sausage you choose. Mild Italian sausage will keep it gentle, while spicy sausage will add a nice kick. You can always add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want extra heat.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Because it stores and reheats so well, this One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe is a fantastic meal prep option. Just portion it out into containers for quick, flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe is a true champion of simple, comforting cooking that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or fun. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing it as I do. It’s perfect for busy days, casual dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort. So grab your pot, gather those ingredients, and dive into a bowl that feels like a warm, delicious hug.
Print
One-Pot Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This comforting One-Pot Sausage Pasta recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage, aromatic vegetables, and hearty pasta in a rich tomato sauce, all cooked together in a single pot for an easy, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed and cut into ½-inch pieces
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Tomatoes & Sauces
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
Pasta & Broth
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or similar), uncooked
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Brown Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage pieces until fully cooked and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and break up sausage into smaller pieces.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook, stirring often, until the onion is softened and translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Using a sturdy pot or Dutch oven helps maintain even heat while simmering.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added flavor.
- For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger families or meal prep.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
