Smoked Sausage and Mozzarella Pasta is a simple, tasty meal that brings together tender pasta, smoky sausage slices, and gooey mozzarella cheese. The smokiness from the sausage gives each bite a rich, hearty flavor, while the melted mozzarella adds a creamy, cheesy touch that makes the dish super comforting and satisfying.
I love making this pasta when I want something quick but still filling and full of flavor. It’s easy to toss together, and I usually add a little garlic and some herbs to make it extra tasty. The mozzarella melting over the warm pasta and sausage is honestly the best part—it feels like a warm, cheesy hug on a plate.
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for sharing with friends on a casual night. I like serving it with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to round out the meal. It’s one of those comfort foods that’s dependable, easy to love, and always hits the spot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: This is the star for smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked sausage, kielbasa or smoked chorizo work well. For a lighter option, try smoked turkey sausage.
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully for creamy pockets. If you want more stretch, use low-moisture mozzarella. For dairy-free, try vegan mozzarella shreds.
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne hold sauce nicely thanks to their shape. You can swap for ziti, penne rigate, or even fusilli if you prefer spiral shapes.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade tomato sauce. For more zest, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor and Texture from the Smoked Sausage?
Cooking the sausage well is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Slice the sausage into even rounds for even cooking.
- Heat olive oil on medium heat and add sausage slices, letting them brown without moving too often.
- Cook until edges are slightly crispy and browned, usually 5 to 7 minutes, which boosts flavor through caramelization.
- Remove sausage before cooking onions, so the pan picks up those tasty browned bits.
This method gives smoky, slightly crispy sausage that stands out in the pasta and adds extra depth to the sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or frying pan – great for browning sausage and cooking the sauce all in one pan.
- Colander – makes draining the pasta quick and easy.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps stir ingredients without scratching your pan.
- Lid for the skillet – traps heat so the mozzarella melts nicely over the pasta.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap smoked sausage for Italian sausage or chicken sausage for a different taste.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
- Use cheddar or provolone cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper or milder melt.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you like a little spicy kick.
Smoked Sausage And Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into small pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Time Needed:
This delicious meal takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta, plus 15-20 minutes cooking the sausage, sauce, and melting the mozzarella. It’s a quick, tasty dinner option!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until it’s just tender but still has a little bite (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Smoked Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp around the edges, about 5 to 7 minutes. Take it out of the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion. Cook until it softens and begins to turn golden, about 4-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Sauce and Season:
Pour in the marinara or tomato sauce. Stir it together with the onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning or oregano if you’re using it. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to bring the flavors together.
5. Combine Sausage and Pasta:
Put the browned sausage back into the skillet with the sauce and stir. Then add the cooked pasta, tossing everything gently to coat the noodles evenly with sauce and sausage.
6. Melt the Mozzarella:
Take the skillet off the heat. Scatter the torn fresh mozzarella pieces over the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil for 2-3 minutes so the cheese melts into gooey, delicious pockets.
7. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Taste and add more salt and pepper if you need it. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a fresh grind of black pepper.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Lid for skillet (to melt mozzarella)
Variation Ideas
- Swap smoked sausage with Italian or chicken sausage.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture.
- Try cheddar or provolone cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for some heat.
Can I Use Frozen Smoked Sausage?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage in the fridge overnight before slicing and cooking. This helps it brown evenly and stay juicy.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pasta and sausage ahead, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add fresh mozzarella just before serving for the best melt.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Without Losing Cheese Texture?
Reheat gently on low heat on the stove and add a few extra mozzarella pieces to freshen up the cheesy, melty texture without drying out the pasta.
