Introduction
Kielbasa pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines smoky sausage with vibrant vegetables and comforting pasta. This easy one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a balanced meal that delivers bold taste and a rich, creamy texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, kielbasa pasta is sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is quick to prepare and full of flavor.
It requires only a handful of ingredients you likely already have.
It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spice level.
The smoky sausage paired with creamy tomato sauce is always a hit.
It’s great for family dinners or casual hosting.
Recipe Origins
This dish draws from Central European roots, where kielbasa is a staple in many traditional meals. Its blend with pasta and aromatic vegetables reflects a modern, American one-pan approach to comfort food. Inspired by quick, hearty meals shared around family tables, it’s become a go-to dinner for many households across the U.S.
Ingredients
8 oz dried pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
1/2 small onion, sliced
2 bell peppers, sliced
3 garlic cloves, sliced
1 lb fresh tomatoes, diced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
1- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set pasta aside.
2- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté sliced onion, bell peppers, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4- Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
5- Return kielbasa to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the mixture.
6- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Tear in fresh basil and stir briefly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 520
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 940mg
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 20 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Avoid multiple reheats to preserve texture.
To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and use within 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Grilled vegetables
Roasted red potatoes
Tomato basil bruschetta
Common Mistakes
Overcrowding the pan: prevents proper browning
Skipping pasta water: reduces sauce cling
Overcooking vegetables: leads to mushy texture
Not seasoning enough: bland taste
Adding basil too early: flavor fades before serving
Recipe Variations
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa noodles
Low Dairy: Swap broth with coconut milk for creaminess
Spicy: Use chorizo instead of kielbasa
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms or spinach
Fruity Twist: Toss in diced peaches or apricots
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prepare and reheat with added broth to keep it creamy. - What pasta works best?
Short pasta like rigatoni or penne holds sauce better. - How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Cook it al dente and mix with sauce just before serving. - Can kids eat this?
Definitely. It’s flavorful but not too spicy. - How spicy is this dish?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust crushed red pepper to taste.
Conclusion
Kielbasa pasta is an easy and delicious dinner that blends bold sausage flavor with a creamy tomato base and fresh herbs. With its fast prep time, versatile ingredients, and satisfying results, this dish will quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation. Perfect for weeknights, family meals, or when you just need something reliably tasty—this recipe delivers every time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1/2 small onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 lb fresh tomatoes, diced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
1- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set pasta aside.
2- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté sliced onion, bell peppers, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4- Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
5- Return kielbasa to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the mixture.
6- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Tear in fresh basil and stir briefly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 520
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 940mg
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 20 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐
