Spicy Sausage Pasta with Ro-Tel Tomatoes and Monterey Jack Recipe
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.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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