One pot cheesy sausage pasta is a decadent and rich one-pot meal, full of melty cheese and bites of summer sausage, and perfect for an easy meal at home when you don't want a lot of cleanup!
Heat a large skillet (one with a lid) over medium to medium-high heat, and add the smoked sausage. Saute until browned well -- if you need a little oil because it starts to stick, add a drizzle. Remove from the pan, and set aside.
In the same skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and onion. Saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the broth, and scrape the pan to loosen any browned bits.
Add the diced tomatoes, water, dry pasta, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, add the lid, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
Stir in the shredded cheese, red pepper flakes if using, and the spinach. Stir to combine until the cheese is melted.
Return the sausage to the pan and stir to combine.
Serve right away!
Notes
You have so much flexibility with this dish. Don't love cooked spinach? Toss in peas! You can also add different kinds of cheese or use different shaped pasta.
This is a great recipe to double and freeze half for a busy day!
Remember to keep the lid on and the heat low so that the pasta can cook properly.
Make sure to taste it as it finishes cooking and add more salt and pepper, if needed.