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Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4 Servings

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well
  • 12 to 14 ounces smoked sausage sliced into rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional add-ins

  • onion
  • bell peppers
  • spinach
  • red pepper flakes
  • mushrooms

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add garlic and any vegetables you’re using. Cook for about 30 seconds to 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
  • Return the sausage to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

Tips for the Best Creamy Sausage Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce and better flavor.
Do not boil the cream aggressively; keep it at a gentle simmer to avoid separation.
Reserve a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.
Brown the sausage well for maximum smoky flavor before building the sauce.
 

Variations and Substitutions

Swap smoked sausage for chicken sausage, andouille, or turkey sausage.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture.
Make it spicy with Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
Keyword Comforting, Cozy, Creamy, Dinner, Easy, Flavorfull, Smoked