One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a flavorful and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory kielbasa with fresh vegetables and tender penne, it’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly in just one pot.

Ingredients
- 8 oz Barilla Penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, cut into 1-inch strips
- 4 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 1 lb tomatoes, diced
- 2 tsp McCormick’s Italian seasoning
- 3/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 3/4 cup Swanson low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove kielbasa and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, add chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 4: Add the penne pasta to the pot and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, about 12-15 minutes. Add extra broth or water if needed.
- Step 5: Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Stir in fresh basil leaves and balsamic vinegar. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Swap kielbasa for smoked sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
- Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
- If you prefer a saucier pasta, add more chicken broth or a splash of tomato sauce.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne rigate, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed according to the pasta package instructions.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the kielbasa with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
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One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish combining smoky kielbasa, fresh vegetables, and tender penne pasta cooked together in a single pot. This hearty pasta recipe features a rich tomato base, seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with fresh basil and parmesan cheese, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for four.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 oz Barilla Penne pasta
- 2 tsp McCormick’s Italian seasoning
- 3/4 tsp crushed red pepper
Meat
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
Vegetables
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, cut into 1-inch strips
- 4 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 1 lb tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
Liquids and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 cup Swanson low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Dairy
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick rounds, chop the onion, cut the bell peppers into 1-inch strips, mince the garlic cloves, and dice the tomatoes. Wash and prepare the fresh basil leaves for garnish.
- Sauté kielbasa and vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the kielbasa slices and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened, approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and tomatoes soften.
- Cook pasta in broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the penne pasta directly into the pot with the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for around 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Combine and finish: Once the pasta is cooked, return the browned kielbasa to the pot. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and half of the fresh basil leaves. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining fresh basil leaves and sprinkled with grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy your hearty one-pot kielbasa pasta!
Notes
- You can substitute penne with other pasta types like rigatoni or fusilli.
- For a spicier dish, increase crushed red pepper to 1 teaspoon.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh basil adds a bright flavor, but dried basil can be used if fresh is not available.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: One-Pot Pasta, Kielbasa Pasta, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal, Italian Seasoning, Penne Pasta, Sausage Pasta
