Kielbasa Pasta (One-Pan Comfort Meal)
- Prep time:10 minutes
- Cook time:25 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
12 oz (340 g) of rotini pasta (or penne or fusilli)
14 oz (400 g) of sliced kielbasa sausage
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cups of thinly sliced green cabbage
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon of chilli flakes (optional).
½ cup of chicken broth (or pasta water).
½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for a creamy version).
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish).
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil.
Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the kielbasa.
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat.
Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy.
Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables.
In the same skillet, add the onions and cabbage.
Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelised.
Add the garlic and cook for a further 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Season and build flavour.
Stir in the paprika, black pepper, salt and chilli flakes.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine everything.
Add the cooked pasta and browned kielbasa back to the skillet.
Toss well.
For a creamy version, stir in some cream and a splash of the reserved pasta water.
6. Finish and serve.
Sprinkle with Parmesan, if desired.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Tips & variations
For an extra cheesy flavour, add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère.
For a spicy option, use spicy kielbasa or add more chilli flakes.
Healthier: Use wholemeal pasta and light cream.
One-pot version: Cook the pasta directly in the skillet with extra broth.
