Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta
I've been in the mood for turkey kielbasa lately and thought I would do my usual sheet pan turkey kielbasa with veggies meal. While scrolling Instagram, I saw a cheesy kielbasa pasta recipe, but I noticed it lacked spice and richness. I decided to add smoked paprika and a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a more flavorful kick!
If you like the combined flavors of whole grain pasta, turkey kielbasa sausage, and ooey gooey cheese, this is the recipe for you!
This family-friendly cheesy kielbasa pasta recipe was a huge hit with both myself and my 14 year old son. This meal can be customized based on your preferences.
I have been having some stomach pain for the past few weeks so I am trying to make better choices in the food that I eat. Because of that, I used turkey kielbasa as a healthier alternative to beef kielbasa, whole grain pasta, and olive oil instead of vegetable oil. For an even healthier option, you can also use a light or reduced fat cheese. Feel free to adjust to your liking and health needs.
For the best cheesy texture, serve the pasta fresh off the stove. If reheating, microwave for 30 seconds to remelt the cheese—it makes a big difference!
Try these Family-Friendly Pasta Recipes
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese with Rotisserie Chicken
Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese
This meal is perfect on weekdays or weekends when you have a little bit of extra time to make a delicious meal. It takes less than 25 minutes, with a 5-10 minute prep time.
• Total cook time: Less than 25 minutes
• Family-friendly: Yes, my teen loved it!
• Difficulty level: Intermediate
• Serving suggestions: Serve pasta dish with a side of garlic bread, asparagus stalks, mashed potatoes, and a side of sparkling cider
• Variations: For a lower-carb version, swap out the pasta for zoodles or cauliflower. Make it spicier by adding cayenne pepper, more red pepper flakes, or jalapenos.
Ingredients for Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta
*This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you purchase using any of my links. For more information, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
• 13 oz turkey kielbasa (sliced into rounds, feel free to swap out for beef kielbasa)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup half and half (you can also use heavy cream instead)
• *8 oz uncooked Whole Grain Penne Pasta or your choice of any pasta
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Black pepper, to taste
How to Make Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Step #1 Cook the Kielbasa
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Slice the sausage and add the sliced kielbasa to the pan and cook until browned on medium heat, about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step #2 Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, add the onion powder, garlic powder, water, half and a half and stir to combine.
Step #3 Add the Pasta and Simmer
Add in the uncooked pasta, smoked paprika, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
Step #4 Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is tender. Stir in cheeses and keep warm until melted.
Step #5 Stir in Cheese and Kielbasa
Return the kielbasa to the pan and mix well. Spoon the cheesy kielbasa into bowls and garnish with more pepper.
Serve and enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or the stovetop for best results.
Comments
Post a Comment