Name: Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz cavatappi (or elbow pasta); 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 orange or yellow bell pepper, chopped; ½ cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained); ½ tsp Italian seasoning; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish; Grated Parmesan, for topping

Jump to Recipe

If your evenings feel like a mad dash from work to dinner table, this Sausage Pasta Skillet is your new best friend. I’ve been there—tired, hungry, and staring into the fridge like it’s a magic 8-ball. That’s why I adore this recipe. It’s a warm hug in a pan—hearty, cheesy, and ready in just 30 minutes.

With juicy Italian sausage, tender pasta, and colorful peppers all in one skillet, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table say “Mmm!” No fuss, no sink full of dishes—just pure weeknight magic.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Pasta Skillet

This sausage pasta skillet checks all the weeknight dinner boxes—quick, comforting, and downright delicious. It’s a one-pan wonder that saves time and sanity, especially after a long day. With bold Italian flavors, melty cheese, and hearty pasta, even picky eaters come running. And cleanup? Practically nonexistent. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, this cheesy skillet pasta dinner makes life easier—and tastier—bite by bite.

Ingredients Sausage Pasta Skillet

This hearty sausage pasta skillet comes together with a handful of pantry staples and fridge favorites. I love how flexible it is—easy to swap or substitute based on what you’ve got on hand. Below is a quick guide to what you’ll need. Exact amounts are listed at the bottom of the post and available for printing.

Cavatappi pasta – These curly noodles hold the sauce beautifully, but penne or rotini work too.
Italian sausage – Choose mild or spicy depending on your flavor mood. Remove the casings if needed.
Olive oil – Just a splash to get everything sizzling in the skillet.
Bell peppers – Red, orange, or yellow add sweetness and color. I usually use two different colors for contrast.
Onion – Finely chopped for a savory depth that balances the sausage and tomatoes.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic brings that irresistible aroma—it’s the soul of any good pasta dish.
Diced tomatoes – Canned and undrained, they create a juicy base that soaks into the pasta.
Italian seasoning – A quick blend of herbs to add that classic Italian-American flavor.
Salt & pepper – Season to taste, but don’t skip—it pulls all the flavors together.
Shredded cheese – Mozzarella or an Italian blend melts into gooey perfection. I’ve even tried provolone—so good!
Fresh herbs – Basil or parsley for freshness and a pop of green at the end.
Parmesan cheese – A generous sprinkle on top adds a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together.

Optional additions? A splash of cream for richness, crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or spinach for greens. Use what speaks to your cravings—or what’s hanging out in your fridge!

How to Make Sausage Pasta Skillet

Making this sausage pasta skillet is as satisfying as it is simple. From boiling the pasta to melting the cheese, each step builds layers of cozy flavor. Let’s walk through it together—you’ll have a one-pan sausage pasta masterpiece on the table in no time.

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta First

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil and drop in your cavatappi. Cook it just until al dente—firm with a little bite. That’s key for this sausage and cavatappi skillet, so the pasta doesn’t get mushy later.

Drain the pasta and set it aside. I usually toss it with a teeny drizzle of olive oil to keep it from sticking while I finish the rest.

Step 2 – Brown the Italian Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a swirl of olive oil. Toss in the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. I love hearing that sizzle—it means flavor is on the way.

Once the sausage is cooked through and golden, transfer it to a plate. Don’t clean the skillet—you’ll want all those tasty browned bits for the next layer of flavor in this cheesy skillet pasta dinner.

Step 3 – Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add your chopped onion and colorful bell peppers. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften but still have a little bite.

Then stir in the garlic and let it cook just a minute more. The smell? Pure weeknight comfort. This is where the magic starts in our easy weeknight pasta recipe.

Step 4 – Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in the diced tomatoes with all their juicy goodness. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and give everything a good stir. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can cozy up together.

This step turns basic ingredients into a rich, savory base that wraps every bite in flavor—like a hug from Nonna in a pan.

Step 5 – Combine Everything in the Skillet

Now bring the sausage back to the party. Add it to the skillet, then toss in your cooked pasta. Stir gently to coat every twist and curl of the cavatappi with sauce and sausage.

This is when the quick comfort food pasta really starts to come together. It’s hearty, colorful, and smells like heaven.

Step 6 – Finish with Cheese and Garnish

Turn the heat to low and sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella or Italian blend. Stir until it melts into creamy ribbons throughout the dish. Honestly, this part makes me do a little happy dance every time.

Top your sausage pasta skillet with a handful of chopped basil or parsley and a generous dusting of Parmesan. Serve warm, straight from the skillet if you like—less dishes, more joy.

Tips for Success

Use freshly grated cheese—it melts smoother and adds richer flavor than pre-shredded blends.
Don’t overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente so it holds up in the skillet.
Drain any excess grease from the sausage to avoid an oily sauce.
Stir gently when combining everything to keep the pasta from falling apart.
Finish with fresh herbs—they brighten the whole dish and make it pop on the plate.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet (12-inch or bigger) – Big enough to hold all the goodness without overflowing.
Medium saucepan for pasta – Just the right size for boiling your cavatappi to perfection.
Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for stirring and scraping up those flavorful browned bits.
Colander for draining – A must for straining the pasta quickly and easily.
Sharp knife and cutting board – To chop those vibrant veggies with ease and precision.

Variations

Use spicy sausage for a kick – If your taste buds love a little fire, go for hot Italian sausage. It adds boldness without overpowering the dish.
Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar – Want a smokier or sharper flavor? Provolone melts like a dream, and cheddar brings a tangy twist to this cheesy skillet pasta dinner.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens – Stir in a handful during the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt quickly and sneak in nutrients without fuss—perfect for picky little eaters.
Use gluten-free pasta for GF version – Cavatappi, penne, or rotini made from rice or chickpeas work well and hold up nicely in this one-pan sausage pasta.
Stir in cream cheese for extra richness – A couple spoonfuls melted in at the end turns this into a creamy, dreamy quick comfort food pasta that feels indulgent without much effort.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or focaccia – That crispy, buttery edge is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Pair with a simple green salad – A light vinaigrette balances the richness of this hearty sausage pasta skillet.
Add a glass of chilled white wine – Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc plays well with the savory sausage and melty cheese.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan just before serving – Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese, right?
Garnish with fresh basil for a restaurant-style touch – It adds color, aroma, and a little bit of fancy flair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this one-pan sausage pasta ahead of time?
A: Yes, and it reheats like a dream! Just cook everything as directed, let it cool, and pop it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, warm it up in the skillet with a splash of broth or water to bring back that saucy goodness. I often make this one-pan sausage pasta on Sunday night to enjoy throughout the week—it saves me on those extra-hectic days!

Q: What’s the best pasta type for this sausage and cavatappi skillet?
A: I’m partial to cavatappi—those curly spirals soak up the sauce like little flavor sponges. But don’t stress if you’re out. Penne, rotini, or even fusilli work wonderfully in this sausage and cavatappi skillet. Just aim for short pasta shapes with grooves or twists to cling to all that cheesy, savory goodness.

Q: Can I freeze cheesy skillet pasta dinner leftovers?
A: Absolutely! This cheesy skillet pasta dinner freezes surprisingly well. Let it cool, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and stash it away for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water—or zap it in the microwave. It’s like a homemade TV dinner, but way tastier.

Q: Is this an easy weeknight pasta recipe for beginners?
A: Definitely! Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or just short on time, this easy weeknight pasta recipe has your back. It uses simple ingredients, requires minimal prep, and comes together in one skillet. Plus, it’s so forgiving—if you mess up a step, it still turns out delicious. Even my teenager has managed to make it solo (with only minor cheese-related chaos)!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a sausage pasta skillet—it’s like comfort food with a passport. From the first sizzle of sausage to the last cheesy twirl of pasta, this dish brings warmth, ease, and flavor to your table. It’s my go-to when the day’s been long and dinner needs to be quick, hearty, and soul-soothing.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving leftovers for lunch, this quick comfort food pasta never disappoints. I hope it becomes one of your beloved weeknight staples too—because good food shouldn’t be complicated, just delicious.

Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes