INTRODUCTION
Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. It combines the heartiness of sausage with creamy cheese and pasta in one simple skillet. This meal is not only delicious but also quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to fall in love with this Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With just one skillet and a few simple steps, you can have a tasty meal ready in about 30 minutes. This dish is also versatile; you can adjust the ingredients based on your taste or what you have in the pantry. Moreover, the creamy sauce and melted cheese create a comforting experience that is hard to resist. Lastly, the beautiful presentation with green scallions on top makes it a feast for the eyes as well.
HOW TO MAKE Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet
Making Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet is straightforward and fun. You will enjoy the process of cooking and the lovely smells that fill your kitchen. Follow the easy steps below to create this amazing dish.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To prepare this recipe, you will need the following equipment:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 450 grams sausage, casing removed and sliced
- 80 grams diced onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 480 millilitres chicken broth
- 400 grams canned diced tomatoes with juices
- 120 millilitres whole milk
- 225 grams dry pasta
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese (about 200 grams)
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 30 grams chopped scallions
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
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Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Cook the Sausage and Onions: Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sliced sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft.
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Add Garlic and Spices: Next, add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors blend together.
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Combine the Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, whole milk, and dry pasta. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the pasta is fully cooked.
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Melt the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and well integrated into the pasta mixture.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top as a fresh garnish. Serve the dish immediately and enjoy!
HOW TO SERVE Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet
Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet can be served as a main dish. It works well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with your favorite wine to elevate the dining experience. The creamy texture makes it cozy and inviting, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night at home.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. When you want to reheat, add a splash of milk to the skillet over low heat to help bring back the creamy texture.
For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
You can serve Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet with a variety of sides. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Garlic Bread: The wonderful flavors of garlic and butter complement the cheesy pasta.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil provide a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: The slight crunch and vibrant color of steamed broccoli add a healthy touch to the meal.
VARIATIONS
You can customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some variations you might consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or mushrooms instead of meat. Increase the number of vegetables for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra spicy version that will set your taste buds tingling.
- Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar-Jack for different flavors and textures.
- Pasta Choices: Swap out the dry pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any sausage you prefer. Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even turkey sausage work well too.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. You can reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
4. What can I add for extra vegetables?
You can add spinach, bell peppers, peas, or corn to the skillet during cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, here are some tips to help you out:
- Prep Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and sausage a day in advance. Store them in separate containers in the fridge.
- Cook and Store: You can fully prepare the dish, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on low heat before serving.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the dish, allow it to cool first, and then freeze it in portions for easy meals later on.
Enjoy your Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet! With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to share in no time.
Cheesy Sausage Pasta Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sliced sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft.
- Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, whole milk, and dry pasta. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked.
- Stir in the shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese until completely melted and well mixed.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped scallions on top as a garnish. Serve immediately.