If you’re looking for a dish that wraps up comfort, flavor, and sheer pasta joy all in one bowl, you’ll want to keep this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe in your back pocket. Imagine tender pasta twirled through a lusciously silky sauce, studded with smoky sausage, sweet onions, and a dusting of fresh parsley—a meal that comes together in 30 minutes yet tastes like you’ve labored for hours. Whether you crave a cozy weeknight dinner or want to wow unexpected guests, this recipe will absolutely steal the show and win you rave reviews every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient is there for a reason, building layers of flavor and texture that make every bite memorable. Let’s break down what you need and why it matters.
- Smoked Sausage: Sliced into juicy rounds, the sausage brings bold, smoky depth and hearty bites to every forkful.
- Pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold sauce beautifully; choose what you love for that perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio.
- Olive Oil: Just a drizzle kicks off the cooking, locking in savory undertones right from the start.
- Onion: Finely diced, it adds natural sweetness and a subtle layer of complexity to the sauce.
- Garlic: Two cloves, freshly minced, infuse the entire dish with irresistible aroma and zing.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that ultra-creamy, rich sauce—don’t be shy here!
- Chicken Broth: Adds savory flavor and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy.
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding sharp, nutty notes and velvety body.
- Milk: Helps thin the sauce just enough while amping up the creaminess.
- Italian Seasoning: No need to measure a dozen herbs; this blend instantly brings Mediterranean flair.
- Paprika: A touch of warmth and smoky color makes every bite irresistible.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing all the rich flavors—taste and adjust as you go.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): A fresh sprinkle at the end brightens the whole dish and adds vibrant color.
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add your choice of penne or rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside—you want it ready to soak up all that luscious sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, letting each round develop that crave-worthy caramelization and smoky aroma. This step is where you unlock tons of flavor—don’t rush it!
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, just until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, filling your kitchen with that mouthwatering, garlicky scent.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Give everything a good stir, making sure those browned bits from the sausage and onions blend right into the sauce. Bring it all to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and let the sauce gently bubble for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens into a dreamy, creamy consistency that clings perfectly to pasta.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece in that velvety sauce. Simmer for an extra 2 minutes to let all the flavors marry—they truly get better together!
Step 7: Finish and Garnish
Give the dish a taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of brightness just before serving. Dive in and enjoy your Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe while it’s steamy and luscious!
How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs take this pasta from wonderful to wow. Parsley, basil, or even a little sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top add a final flourish of flavor and a splash of color that makes your Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe as beautiful as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
To round out this hearty skillet meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or a loaf of warm crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, also pair beautifully for a pop of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving the pasta in shallow bowls with a swirl of sauce on top, sprinkled with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. Or divide the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe into small ramekins for a fun, individual-served dinner party twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The flavors deepen as they sit, and it tastes phenomenal the next day, making lunch something to look forward to.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to two months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even spicy andouille work beautifully in the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe. Feel free to experiment with your favorite sausage for a unique twist.
Is there a lighter version of the sauce?
If you’re watching calories, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for a reduced-fat milk. The sauce will still be creamy but a bit lighter on the richness.
Can I add vegetables to the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or even peas add color and nutrients. Simply toss them in with the sauce to wilt and soften before adding the pasta.
What pasta shapes work best for this dish?
Penne and rotini are classic, but any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well—like rigatoni or farfalle—will be delicious. The key is to pick a shape that soaks up all that creamy goodness!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free. You’ll still get all the comforting creamy flavors without the gluten.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe a try soon—it’s one of those simple yet incredibly satisfying meals that always brings people to the table with big smiles. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to for busy nights or cozy, indulgent dinners at home. Enjoy every creamy, smoky, cheesy bite!
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Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta. This easy stovetop recipe combines savory smoked sausage with a luscious creamy sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 12 oz smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the sauce:
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Sear the sausage: In a skillet, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned. Add onion and garlic, then pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk.
- Add seasonings: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and garnish: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to coat, and simmer briefly. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can use kielbasa or turkey sausage as a substitute.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
