Need a quick, easy, and satisfying meal for a busy weeknight? Look no further than kielbasa pasta! This dish is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic option for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions. You can easily adapt it to your own tastes and preferences by adding different vegetables, sauces, or cheeses.
Kielbasa brings a distinct smoky flavor that pairs well with so many different ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful meal on the table in no time. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to create a delicious kielbasa recipe with pasta that your whole family will love.
What is kielbasa and why is it great for pasta?
Kielbasa is a sausage of Polish origin with a distinctive smoky, savory flavor. You can find kielbasa in most grocery stores in smoked and fresh varieties. Smoked kielbasa has a more intense flavor that can add depth and complexity to even the simplest pasta recipes.
Kielbasa works well in pasta dishes because its robust flavor complements the other ingredients. Even after you cook it, kielbasa stays firm, so it has a satisfying texture that makes it a welcome addition to the plate.
Classic Kielbasa Pasta Recipe
This recipe is a simple, satisfying way to get dinner on the table fast. The smoky kielbasa, bright vegetables, and flavorful sauce make for a hearty and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dried pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage
- ½ small onion
- 2 bell peppers
- 3 large cloves garlic
- 1 pound fresh tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes: I like to use a pasta shape that really grabs the sauce, like penne or rotini. And definitely spring for a good quality smoked kielbasa – it makes a huge difference in the final flavor!
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, slice the kielbasa and brown it in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper (if using).
- Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this is called deglazing and adds tons of flavor!).
- Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until it has slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta and browned kielbasa to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to cook your pasta al dente – nobody likes mushy pasta!
- Don’t be afraid to really brown the kielbasa. That little bit of char adds so much flavor.
- Deglazing the pan is crucial! Don’t skip this step – it’s where all the good flavor is hiding.
Creamy Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Variation
Want to take your kielbasa pasta to the next level? Try adding a creamy, cheesy sauce. This variation is rich, comforting, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Adding Creaminess and Cheese
To make this dish extra creamy, use half-and-half or heavy cream in the sauce. You can also reserve some of the pasta water to help emulsify the sauce, making it even smoother. As for cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan all complement kielbasa beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Creamy Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Recipe Steps
- Cook your kielbasa and vegetables as you would for the basic recipe.
- Add a tablespoon of flour to the pan and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Slowly add chicken broth and half-and-half (or heavy cream), stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in your cheese of choice until it’s melted and smooth.
- Combine the creamy cheese sauce with your cooked pasta and kielbasa mixture.
- Serve immediately.
Breadcrumb Topping
For an extra touch of texture, consider adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Pangrattato, or toasted breadcrumbs, are a fantastic choice. Simply toast breadcrumbs in a pan with a little olive oil, garlic, and herbs until golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle over the pasta before serving for a delightful crunch.
Variations and Customizations
One of the things I love about this kielbasa pasta recipe is how easy it is to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Adding Vegetables
Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and broccoli all pair beautifully with kielbasa and pasta. Sauté them along with the onions and peppers for a boost of flavor and nutrients.
Incorporating Additional Protein
Feel like adding even more protein? Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would be delicious in this dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Spice Level Adjustments
Not a fan of spice? Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. Or, if you like it hot, use a spicier variety of kielbasa or add an extra pinch of red pepper.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This kielbasa pasta recipe is a hearty meal on its own, but it’s even better with the right sides and drinks. Consider serving with:
- A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Garlic bread, either homemade or store-bought
For wine, a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir won’t overpower the dish. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, also works well.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Key Takeaways
This kielbasa pasta recipe is easy to make and tastes amazing. It’s the perfect dish to whip up on a busy weeknight or when you want something comforting and satisfying.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations! Try adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to customize the dish to your liking.
Remember to cook the pasta al dente and brown the kielbasa well for the best flavor. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to create your own unique and delicious version of kielbasa pasta that everyone will love.