One-Pan Kielbasa Pasta (Print Version)

Smoky kielbasa, penne, tomatoes, cream, and cheddar simmer together in one skillet for a hearty 30-minute dinner.

# Ingredients:

→ For the skillet pasta

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 14 oz (400 g) fully cooked smoked kielbasa, sliced 1/4 inch thick
03 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
10 - 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
11 - 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
12 - 2 3/4 cups (650 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
13 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
14 - 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach
15 - 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
16 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kielbasa in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning once or twice, until browned at the edges. Transfer to a plate.
02 - Add the onion and bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until softened.
03 - Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
04 - Add the penne, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer. Cover and cook for 11-13 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is just tender.
05 - Stir in the heavy cream, baby spinach, and browned kielbasa. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the sauce lightly thickens.
06 - Turn off the heat. Stir in the cheddar a handful at a time until melted and creamy. Rest for 3 minutes, then sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Use fully cooked smoked kielbasa unless you plan to cook raw sausage separately first.
02 - Stir the pasta during simmering so it cooks evenly and does not stick to the skillet.
03 - The sauce thickens as it rests for a few minutes.

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