EASY KIELBASA PASTA RECIPE

Craving a comforting bowl of pasta but short on time? Imagine tender pasta twirled with savory kielbasa, bathed in a luscious sauce that’s both satisfying and quick to make. This Kielbasa Pasta recipe is your answer to a delicious and effortless weeknight dinner, and I promise, you’ll be making it again and again!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 4 quarts water
• 1 tablespoon salt

For the Kielbasa Pasta Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for extra creaminess
• 1 cup vegetables (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Let’s Talk Kielbasa: Choosing the Right Sausage

Choosing the right kielbasa can really elevate your Kielbasa Pasta. You’ll find a few different types at the store, and while they’ll all work, some will give you a better flavor profile.

• Polish Kielbasa (Polska Kielbasa): This is your classic option, typically smoked and well-seasoned with garlic and marjoram. It adds a robust, smoky flavor to the dish.
• Hungarian Kielbasa (Csabai Kolbász): If you like a little heat, go for this one! It’s usually spicier, with paprika and other seasonings that give it a kick.
• Kielbasa with Cheese: Some varieties have cheese mixed in, which will melt into the sauce and add a creamy element.
• Turkey Kielbasa: For a leaner option, turkey kielbasa is a great substitute. It still has a nice smoky flavor but with less fat.

No matter which you choose, make sure it’s fully cooked kielbasa, as you’ll only be heating it through in the recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta:

1. Bring the water to a rolling boil in a large pot.
2. Add the salt and then the pasta.
3. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
4. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Trust me, you’ll want this for the sauce!
5. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Making the Kielbasa Pasta Sauce:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step is key for developing that rich, savory flavor.
3. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside. Don’t drain the rendered fat – that’s flavor gold!
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet and stir to combine.

Bringing it All Together:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the kielbasa sauce.
2. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a little more of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half (if using) for an extra creamy sauce.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the BEST Kielbasa Pasta

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the sauce.
• Brown the kielbasa well: This step adds so much flavor to the dish. Don’t rush it!
• Taste and adjust the seasoning: Every brand of kielbasa and canned tomatoes has a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the sauce. Bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and spinach are all great options.
• Make it creamy: A splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end adds a luxurious touch. You could even use cream cheese for a tangy flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before adding the pasta.
• Pasta Water is your friend: The reserved pasta water is starchy and helps to thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta. Don’t skip this step!

Creative Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic Kielbasa Pasta recipe, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Creamy Pesto Kielbasa Pasta: Add a few tablespoons of pesto to the sauce for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
• Spicy Arrabbiata Kielbasa Pasta: Use a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead of plain tomato sauce for a fiery kick.
• Mushroom and Spinach Kielbasa Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach to the sauce for a hearty and nutritious meal.
• Vodka Sauce Kielbasa Pasta: Make a creamy vodka sauce and add the kielbasa for a restaurant-worthy dish.
• One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta: Simplify the recipe by cooking the pasta and sauce together in one pot. Just add the pasta to the sauce with enough water to cover it, and cook until the pasta is al dente.

If you’re looking for other delicious sausage recipes, be sure to try this Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta, or this Cajun Sausage Pasta for a kick. And for a hearty side dish, this Black Beans And Rice With Sausage is always a winner. You might also enjoy this simple Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet, or perhaps this Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet. Don’t forget to check out these Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage for a savory and comforting meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Kielbasa Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until heated through, or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. You may need to add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened up in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Kielbasa Pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults. I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious dish as much as I do! Happy cooking!