Pro Tip: To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir it occasionally while it cooks. You want the pasta to be al dente—firm to the bite but not too soft.
2. Sauté the Kielbasa and Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
Next, add the sliced kielbasa sausage. Stir occasionally, allowing the sausage to brown slightly—this should take 3 to 4 minutes. Browning the sausage enhances its natural smoky flavor, making it even more delicious.
3. Build the Sauce
Once the kielbasa is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and the optional mushrooms. If you’re using mushrooms, let them cook down for a couple of minutes. Add the white sugar and balsamic vinegar (if using), which will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and bring out a subtle sweetness in the dish. Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper to add a little heat, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently until the pasta is ready.
4. Combine and Finish
Once the pasta and peas are done, drain them and immediately add them to the skillet with the kielbasa and sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the tomato mixture. At this point, add the julienned basil and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the pasta to sit for about 5 minutes so it can absorb some of the sauce’s flavors.
5. Add the Cheese
To complete the dish, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend over the pasta. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, savory finish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions:
- Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad for a light contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer would be the perfect accompaniment.
Tips for Customizing Your Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet
- Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to peas. Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add more crushed red pepper, or throw in a diced jalapeño or hot Italian sausage instead of kielbasa.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving.
- Use Different Pasta Shapes: Penne works well, but fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni can hold the sauce just as nicely.
The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner
Kielbasa and Pasta Skillet is a perfect go-to meal when you’re craving something filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With its blend of smoky kielbasa, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this versatile skillet dish can be adjusted to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
