why make this recipe
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort to your table. It combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage with creamy sauce and pasta, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe is easy to prepare, and it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. The combination of flavors will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
how to make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until the sausage is browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to combine all the flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
how to serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta warm, straight from the skillet. You can sprinkle some extra mozzarella cheese on top for added flavor. This dish goes great with a side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
how to store Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and heat gently in a skillet or microwave.
tips to make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
- For extra flavor, try using different types of smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or andouille.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
variation
To change things up, you can use other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or bow-tie pasta. Adding crushed red pepper flakes will give the dish a nice kick. For a vegetarian option, substitute the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Cheddar or parmesan are great alternatives!
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy sausage pasta. Just be aware that the texture may change a bit upon reheating.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and mix it with the cooked pasta just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 ounces smoked sausage sliced
- 12 ounces pasta fettuccine or similar
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion small, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add sliced sausage and cook until browned; remove sausage and set aside.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return cooked sausage and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly with the sauce; if the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.