One pot kielbasa pasta is packed with flavor and can be made in about 30 minutes. It’s creamy and cheesy, with just the right amount of kick from the tomatoes with green chilis. I’ve been making this easy dinner for years and it’s always been a family favorite.

This creamy kielbasa pasta recipe is one of the most requested by my family. The first time I made it years ago, my daughter said it was her favorite meal and it’s still a regular in our menu rotation.

The combination of flavorful kielbasa, cheesy, creamy pasta, with a hint of heat with the tomatoes with chilis, really is hard to beat. It’s also a really versatile. I like to sneak in some red bell peppers and even broccoli for extra vegetables.

The best part of this recipe is that it can be made in one-pot, even the pasta cooks with everything else. Less dishes to wash is always a plus!

Be sure to check out some of my other kielbasa recipes like kielbasa and potatoes, BBQ sausage bites, sausage green bean potato casserole, and sweet and sour crockpot kielbasa.

Why you’ll love this cheesy kielbasa pasta recipe

• One-pot meal: No need to dirty up a bunch of dishes. This recipe can be made in just one large pot or skillet:
• 30 minute meal: A simple, fast recipe that is perfect for weeknights.
• Packed with flavor: The Rotel, garlic, and kielbasa add so much amazing flavor to this dish.

Ingredients

This spicy sausage pasta uses kielbasa and a few other simple ingredients that you might already have on hand.

• Butter – Used to saute the kielbasa and diced onions. You can substitute with olive oil.
• Kielbasa – You will need a package of kielbasa. You can use Polska kielbasa, turkey kielbasa, beef kielbasa, or your favorite smoked sausage.
• Onions – White, yellow, or Vidalia onions work well in this recipe.
• Garlic –
• Rotel – A can of diced tomatoes with green chilis adds so much flavor to this dish.
• Broth – I like using either chicken broth or vegetable broth. This helps to cook the pasta. You can also use chicken stock.
• Cream – Heavy cream, half and half, or milk can be used.
• Pasta – I prefer using small, short pasta. One of my favorites is small bow-tie pasta or elbow macaroni.
• Cheese – I am using colby and monterey jack cheese. You can substitute with cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, monterey jack, or another blend of cheese.

Substitutions and variations

One pot kielbasa pasta is easy to customize to your taste and preference.

• Change the meat: Use your favorite sausage like turkey kielbasa, chicken sausage, or even a spicy sausage like andouille.
• Swap the pasta: I recommend using a small or short pasta so that it holds the sauce.
• Cheese: Substitute with a different cheese like mozzarella, monterey jack, or cheddar. You can even top with some fresh parmesan cheese.
• Add-ins: Try adding different vegetables like diced bell pepper, spinach, or even broccoli.

How to make kielbasa pasta

Scroll to the bottom for the full, printable kielbasa and pasta recipe and video.

Step one: Cook the butter, kielbasa, and diced onions in a large skillet or pot. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the sausage starts to brown. Stir in the garlic.

Step two: Stir in the chicken broth, half and half, pasta, and ROTEL. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 15 minutes.

Step three: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese and green onions. Serve immediately.

Heather’s recipe tips

• Cut keilbasa small pieces. I recommend cutting the kielbasa in rounds and then in half to make it easier to eat.
• Stir occasionally. I recommend giving the mixture a few stirs throughout the cooking time. This helps to prevent the pasta from sticking.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. The pasta will cook in 13-15 minutes. You don’t want it to overcook the pasta so that it doesn’t become mushy.

Storage

This pasta is best served immediately but you can store and reheat the leftovers.

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat in a saucepan or skillet over medium heat. You can also microwave for 2-3 minutes.

What to serve with kielbasa pasta skillet

This easy cheesy kielbasa pasta is a full meal on it’s own but it can be served alongside side dishes like a simple house salad, air fryer vegetables, garlic bread, and more.

Common questions

More pasta recipes

• Buffalo chicken pasta
• Marry me tortellini
• Taco twist casserole
• Creamy spaghetti
• Baked mostaccioli