Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a delicious meal:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Return the smoked sausage to the pot. Add the pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
6. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Give it a final stir and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken up.

And there you have it — a delicious meal all in one pot! My personal tip is to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Cooking should be intuitive and fun, much like dancing to your favorite song in the kitchen!