If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and absolutely satisfying meal, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is your ticket to flavor town. It’s a perfect harmony of creamy tomato sauce, smoky kielbasa, and tender pasta that comes together unbelievably fast. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, the hearty blend of spices, cheese, and cream creates a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to comfort dishes that everyone at the table will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of ingredients arranged on a wooden table with a white marbled background. At the back center is a large white bowl filled with uncooked rotini pasta, yellow and curly in shape. To the left of the bowl, there are three cans stacked, two labeled tomato sauce and one tomato paste. In front of the cans, there is a white cup with a black handle filled with white milk. On the right side, a white plate holds three small white dishes: one square dish filled with shredded white cheese, a small bowl of minced garlic, and a small square of yellow butter. On the left foreground, there is a square white dish with three piles of spices that appear to be garlic powder, black pepper, and dried herbs. At the very front center of the image, a package of two brown sausages labeled

Keeping the ingredients straightforward is what makes this dish both simple and spectacular. Each component plays a vital role, from the smoky kielbasa adding depth, the creamy cheese enriching the texture, to the herbs tying everything together with incredible flavor.

12 oz package of Kielbasa: Adds a smoky, savory kick that defines the dish’s hearty personality.
16 oz box of pasta: I recommend penne or rigatoni to grab every bit of that luscious sauce.
2 TBSP of butter: For that silky, rich base flavor in the sauce.
2 TBSP of minced garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and a little zing.
1 cup of heavy whipping cream: The secret to that irresistibly creamy texture.
2 8 oz cans of tomato sauce: Gives the sauce a rich, tangy foundation that balances the cream.
3 TBSP of tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor, making it deeper and more vibrant.
1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
1 tsp of Italian seasoning and garlic powder: These herbs add complexity and a savory edge.
1/2 tsp Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
Dried parsley: Sprinkle at the end for a pop of color and freshness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking your pasta according to the instructions on the box. Aim for al dente to ensure the noodles still have a bite once mixed into the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Kielbasa

While the pasta cooks, slice the kielbasa into bite-size rounds or half-moons. Brown them in a pan over medium heat until they get a nice crispy edge and release their smoky aroma. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside—this step ensures that incredible flavor that defines this dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic gently until fragrant but not burnt. Then pour in the heavy whipping cream, two cans of tomato sauce, and stir in the tomato paste. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded Parmesan cheese last and stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly—this rich sauce is the heart of your Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Sausage

Drain the pasta and toss it right into the pan with your creamy sauce. Fold in the browned kielbasa so every bite bursts with flavor. Give everything a gentle mix to ensure each pasta piece is coated in that velvety sauce—the moment when all that comfort comes together.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving

Before serving, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and dried parsley over the top to add freshness and a pop of color. This simple step elevates the dish visually and adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

The image shows a cooking pan with a creamy white sauce base, topped with a bright red layer of tomato sauce spread unevenly. On top of the tomato sauce, there is a layer of green dried herbs sprinkled evenly. Finely grated white cheese is lightly covering the whole surface, blending with the other layers. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil not only adds a bright contrast in color but also a fresh flavor that balances the creamy richness. A little more parmesan cheese grated on top gives that irresistible savory finish everyone loves.

Side Dishes

Serve this creamy smoked sausage pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to scoop up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make wonderful companions, adding texture and nutrients to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests or family, serve this dish in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Try layering it in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs for a baked twist. It’s versatile enough to shine in both casual and fancy settings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place your leftover creamy smoked sausage pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinners that need a quick reheat.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta dish, but to maintain the best texture, freeze the sauce and kielbasa separately from the pasta if possible. Store in freezer-friendly containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce looks too thick after refrigeration. Stir frequently to warm through evenly and preserve that creamy texture everyone loves.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While kielbasa provides that smoky flavor, you can swap it with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage depending on your taste preferences.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe uses regular pasta, but you can easily make it gluten-free by choosing your favorite gluten-free pasta brand. The sauce and other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The result will still be creamy and delicious.

How spicy is this dish?

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is mild by default, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want to spice things up a bit.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini while making the sauce for some extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe truly hits the spot when you want something quick, flavorful, and indulgently creamy. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with those you love or simply treating yourself. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need