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Spicy Sausage Pasta with Ro-Tel Tomatoes and Monterey Jack Recipe

4.5 from 128 reviews

This Spicy Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring smoky sausage, fiery Ro-Tel tomatoes, and creamy cheese, all tossed with tender penne pasta. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that combines a creamy texture with a spicy kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Dairy

  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1.5 cups diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions

Pantry Items

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (10 oz) can Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles, Mild
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until they are browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and the can of Ro-Tel tomatoes with green chiles. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the penne pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
  5. Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
  6. Add Cheese and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top, and cover to let it melt. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions before serving.

Notes

  • Use mild or hot Ro-Tel tomatoes depending on your spice preference.
  • Smoked sausage can be substituted with kielbasa or chorizo for variation.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase the dish’s nutritional value.

Keywords: Spicy Sausage Pasta, creamy pasta, smoky sausage recipe, quick dinner, penne pasta dish, Ro-Tel pasta