Smoked Sausage Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
This Smoked Sausage Pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce is the ultimate comfort food. With smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and savory Parmesan cheese, this dish is full of flavor and is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or even for a cozy weekend meal with family and friends. The best part? You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing and flavor.
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced – Choose a high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor. You can use any type of sausage you like, such as kielbasa, andouille, or chorizo, depending on your taste preference.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is the base for the rich, creamy sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds a savory base to the sauce while keeping it smooth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient that gives the sauce its cheesy, umami flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the flavors of the sausage and cream sauce.
- ½ tsp paprika – Adds a mild smoky flavor and a touch of warmth.
- 10 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best) – Penne or rotini hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type of pasta, such as farfalle or rigatoni.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the dish.
- 1 cup spinach or arugula (optional) – For added freshness and color. Arugula brings a peppery bite, while spinach adds a mild green flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to finish off the dish.
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Boil a large pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook it until it’s al dente, which should take around 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. You can reserve a small amount of pasta water to add to the sauce later if you want to thin it out.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy on the edges. The sausage will release its flavorful oils into the skillet, which will help enhance the flavor of the sauce. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked. The residual sausage flavor in the skillet will infuse the garlic, creating a rich base for the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This will help the flavors meld together while creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and paprika. The Parmesan will melt into the sauce, thickening it and giving it a cheesy, savory flavor. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Taste the sauce and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The sauce should have a perfect balance of richness from the cream, saltiness from the cheese, and savory notes from the sausage and seasonings.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sausage
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently in the creamy sauce until the pasta is fully coated. This step helps the pasta absorb the sauce, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful. Once the pasta is well-coated, stir in the cooked sausage. If you’re using spinach or arugula, add it at this point and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The spinach will wilt down, or the arugula will soften, adding a lovely freshness to the dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the pasta to serving plates, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for more cheesy goodness. Serve the pasta warm, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
This Smoked Sausage Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Sauce pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a light soup for an even more satisfying dinner. If you’re looking to make the dish lighter, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a lower-fat sausage. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 480 (per serving)
Servings: 4
This Smoked Sausage Pasta is a perfect balance of richness, smokiness, and a touch of spice, making it a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting, creamy flavors and satisfying textures. Enjoy!