Ingredients:
- 1 diced onion
- 1-1.5 lbs of smoked sausage (e.g., Johnsonville kielbasa), sliced
- Garlic (as much as desired), minced
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Italian seasoning (to taste)
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 12-16 oz pasta of your choice
- 2.5 cups cheese of your choice (mozzarella, cheddar, pepper jack, etc.)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Saute Onion and Sausage:
- In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and sliced smoked sausage until the onion becomes translucent and the sausage browns a bit.
- Season with Garlic and Spices:
- Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Combine Broth, Cream, and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, and the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Add the pasta to the skillet and give it a good stir.
- Simmer:
- Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes or so, until the pasta is tender.
- Add Cheese:
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheese of your choice until it’s melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top the dish with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and presentation.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the creamy sausage and tomato pasta skillet hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
- Adjust the cheese quantities based on your preference for a cheesier or lighter dish.
- This recipe is versatile, so have fun experimenting with different spices and cheese combinations!
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can use your favorite pasta shape or even opt for a gluten-free variety if needed. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Q2: Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream with a lighter alternative?
A: Yes, you can use alternatives like half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that it might affect the creaminess of the dish.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
A: Certainly! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
Q4: What type of cheese works best for this skillet recipe?
A: The choice of cheese is flexible. Mozzarella, cheddar, and pepper jack work well, but you can experiment with your favorite cheese or a combination for added flavor.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this skillet recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to enhance the nutritional content and add vibrant colors to the dish.
Q6: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: To add some heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the sausage and onions.
Q7: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes, you can use any smoked sausage or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Choose your favorite variety to suit your taste preferences.
Q8: Can I freeze leftovers of this pasta skillet?
A: While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the pasta might change slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently on the stovetop and consider adding a bit of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Q9: Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of fire-roasted ones?
A: Certainly! Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. However, fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
Q10: How can I adjust the serving size of this recipe?
A: To adjust the serving size, simply halve or double the ingredients based on your needs. Keep in mind that cooking times may need slight adjustments.
