Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Kielbasa Sausage Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that's packed with deliciousness and requires minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family with this easy recipe for homemade cooking that's both healthy and hearty. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for those nights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Kielbasa sausage, sliced (choose your favorite flavor – Polish, garlic, or even jalapeño!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Brown the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Kielbasa sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and browned Kielbasa sausage to the sauce. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Kielbasa Sausage Pasta:
- For extra flavor, use a high-quality Kielbasa sausage.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the sausage. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- If you like a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end.
- This recipe is easily adaptable – feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Variations:
- Spicy Kielbasa Pasta: Use a spicy Kielbasa sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
- Vegetarian Kielbasa Pasta: Substitute the Kielbasa sausage with vegetarian sausage or plant-based crumbles.
- Creamy Tomato Kielbasa Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a serving of this Kielbasa Sausage Pasta will likely contain around 400-500 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This simple Kielbasa Sausage Pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish the whole family will enjoy, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Enjoy!