Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta Recipe – Quick, Creamy, and Family-Friendly

Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta served in a bowl

Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta

I've been in the mood for turkey kielbasa lately and thought I would do my usual sheet pan turkey kielbasa with veggies meal. While scrolling Instagram, I saw a cheesy kielbasa pasta recipe, but I noticed it lacked spice and richness. I decided to add smoked paprika and a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a more flavorful kick!

If you like the combined flavors of whole grain pasta, turkey kielbasa sausage, and ooey gooey cheese, this is the recipe for you!

This family-friendly cheesy kielbasa pasta recipe was a huge hit with both myself and my 14 year old son. This meal can be customized based on your preferences.

• Total cook time: Less than 25 minutes
• Family-friendly: Yes, my teen loved it!
• Difficulty level: Intermediate
• Serving suggestions: Serve pasta with garlic bread, asparagus stalks, mashed potatoes, or a side of sparkling cider
• Variations: For a lower-carb version, swap pasta for zoodles or cauliflower. Make it spicier with cayenne, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños.

I have been having some stomach pain for the past few weeks so I am trying to make better choices in the food that I eat. Because of that, I used turkey kielbasa as a healthier alternative to beef kielbasa, whole grain pasta, and olive oil instead of vegetable oil. For an even healthier option, you can also use a light or reduced fat cheese. Feel free to adjust to your liking and health needs.

For the best cheesy texture, serve the pasta fresh off the stove. If reheating, microwave for 30 seconds to remelt the cheese—it makes a big difference!

Try These Family-Friendly Pasta Recipes

• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese with Rotisserie Chicken
• Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese

Ingredients for Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta

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• 13 oz turkey kielbasa (sliced into rounds — feel free to swap for beef kielbasa)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup half and half (or substitute with heavy cream)
• 8 oz uncooked Whole Grain Penne Pasta or any pasta of your choice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta (Step-by-Step)

✓ Step #1: Cook the Kielbasa – Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Slice the sausage and add the sliced kielbasa to the pan. Cook until browned on medium heat, about 3–5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Turkey kielbasa sautéed in a pan for Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta

✓ Step #2: Prepare the Sauce – In the same pan, add onion powder, garlic powder, water, and half and half. Stir to combine.

Sauce on the stove for cheesy kielbasa pasta

✓ Step #3: Add the Pasta and Simmer – Add uncooked pasta, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Making a cheesy pasta dish on the stove.

✓ Step #4: Simmer – Let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender. Stir in cheeses and keep warm until fully melted.

Pasta and cheese cooking on the stove.

✓ Step #5: Stir in Cheese and Kielbasa – Return the cooked kielbasa to the pan and mix well. Spoon the cheesy pasta into bowls and garnish with black pepper or red pepper flakes.

Finished Cheesy Kielbasa Pasta with melted cheese and whole grain penne

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until the cheese melts again.

What Did You Think?

Did you make this healthy kielbasa pasta? I’d love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or tag me on social using the hashtag #savvywithabbie.

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