One-pot MEAL in 30 min. or less — Sausage-Pasta Pot

Just one pot to clean and a meal-in-one that contains all the basic components: protein (sausage), vegetables, grain (pasta), and dairy (cheese & cream). Not only is this VERY tasty, it can be made, start to finish, in 30 minutes of less!

It's versatile, too – I’ve included several ideas for variations below; also, I've made a note of optional ingredients. In other words, adjust this recipe to suit your taste and what you might have on hand.

Actually this is a variation of a pasta side dishI made earlier.

Sausage-Pasta Pot Makes 5 to 6 servings

1 tablespoon olive oil 

1 lb. smoked sausage or Polish kiebasa (use turkey, pork, beef or a combination of meats, depending on your preference), sliced thin

1 medium onion, diced

1 medium green pepper, diced (optional)

2 cloves garlic, minced 

1 can (14.5 to 15 oz.) diced tomatoes with liquid (I used Italian flavored diced tomatoes)

2 cups beef or chicken broth 

½ cup heavy cream, optional (makes the dish a little more creamy)

8 oz. penne pasta  (I used a whole wheat variety)

½ teaspoon Kosher salt

½ teaspoon coarse grind pepper

1 cup grated cheese (I used a combo of Cheddar & Monterey Jack but anything similar would work)

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, if desired – fresh herbs add another layer of flavor

1. Add olive oil to a low, flat Dutch oven or skillet set on medium high heat.

2. Add sausage and cook a few minutes, then add onions and peppers; and cook until tender. Add garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Baca Juga

3. Add broth, tomatoes, cream, pasta, salt and pepper and stir.

4. Bring to a boil, cover skillet, and reduce heat to medium to medium-low.

5. Simmer until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes. At the end of 15 minutes, check the pasta – it should be al dente. If needed, continue to cook with lid off to finish pasta &/or to absorb any excess liquid.