Easy Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta
When you need a meal that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to whip up, Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta is the answer. Imagine smoky slices of sausage mingled with tender pasta, all drenched in a velvety cheese sauce — it’s the kind of dinner that brings everyone running to the table.
This isn’t just another pasta dish. It’s a flavorful, filling, one-skillet recipe that works just as well on a busy weeknight as it does for a laid-back weekend dinner. Plus, it uses pantry staples and simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s break it all down, step by step.
Table of Contents
Why This Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation
What makes this recipe a favorite in so many households? It checks all the boxes:
- Effortless: It comes together quickly and cooks in one pan — minimal cleanup!
- Satisfying: The richness of the cheese and smokiness of the kielbasa hit all the comfort food notes.
- Flexible: You can mix in vegetables, try different cheeses, or use whatever pasta you have on hand.
- Kid-approved: Even picky eaters tend to love it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy kielbasa pasta from scratch:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz kielbasa sausage, cut into ¼-inch slices
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta works well)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk is ideal, but 2% also works)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
You don’t need to be an experienced cook to nail this dish. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have a warm, cheesy, sausage-packed pasta in no time.
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente — about 1 minute less than the package instructions. Drain and set it aside.
Tip: Don’t rinse your pasta — the starch helps the sauce cling better.
2. Sear the Kielbasa
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the oil. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 4–5 minutes, flipping once, until it’s browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes or until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
4. Make the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes. This will form a roux, which thickens your cheese sauce. It should look like a paste and lightly bubble, but don’t let it brown.
5. Add Liquids and Seasoning
Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the chicken broth. Stir until smooth, then add in the Dijon mustard (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce starts to thicken.
Tip: Keep the heat moderate to avoid scorching the milk.
6. Stir in the Cheese
Lower the heat and add both the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and all the cheese has melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes over low heat to warm through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for best results.
Helpful Tips and Creative Variations
Want to tweak this recipe to fit your pantry or preferences? No problem! Here are a few tried-and-true tips.
Switch Up the Pasta
This recipe is versatile when it comes to pasta shapes. Try:
- Rotini for more sauce-grabbing grooves
- Shells for a cozy texture
- Fusilli or cavatappi for fun twists
Choose Your Cheese Wisely
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix things up:
- Gruyère adds nutty complexity
- Fontina makes for ultra-melty goodness
- Pepper jack brings a gentle kick of heat
Avoid pre-shredded cheese when possible — it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Add a Veggie Boost
You can sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor:
- Broccoli florets: Add to the pasta water in the last 2–3 minutes
- Peas: Stir in frozen peas before combining with the sauce
- Spinach: Fold in fresh baby spinach at the end — it wilts quickly and adds color
Make It Spicy
Looking for more punch? Try:
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes
- Hot smoked sausage in place of kielbasa
- A dash of cayenne or chili powder in the sauce
Storage and Reheating Tips
Cheesy kielbasa pasta makes excellent leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:
Refrigerator:
Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
You can freeze it, but keep in mind the texture of the cheese sauce might change slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat with a bit of milk or broth until hot and creamy again.
Tip: If you plan to make it ahead, slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t go mushy when reheated.
Time & Servings Snapshot
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 35 minutes | 4–6 servings |
Wrapping It Up: Why Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Works Every Time
When the craving hits for something rich, savory, and made in a single pan, cheesy kielbasa pasta is the answer. It’s the perfect mix of smoky, cheesy, and creamy with just the right amount of bite from the sausage and pasta.
What makes this recipe even better is how adaptable it is. You can go traditional or mix things up with spicy sausage, new veggies, or a different cheese combo. It’s the kind of dish that never gets old, no matter how many times you make it.
So next time you’re wondering what to cook — whether you’ve had a long day or just want something indulgent — this cheesy kielbasa pasta has your back.
Need more recipes like this? Save this one for your meal plan rotation and try pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a full meal that delivers big on flavor and comfort.
