This creamy smoked sausage pasta is a comforting dish packed with flavor. It’s made with tender pasta, smoky sausage, and a rich creamy sauce that ties everything together deliciously.
Honestly, tossing this together is a breeze! I love how quickly it comes together for a weeknight meal. Plus, leftovers are great for lunch the next day—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne, rigatoni, or rotini for their sturdy shape. You can swap in whole wheat pasta for a healthier option, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package!
Smoked Sausage: Look for a good-quality smoked sausage for that rich flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. Alternatively, you can try kielbasa for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, feel free to substitute with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich, but it will still be delicious.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives a nice sharpness to the dish, but feel free to use a blend with mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free cheese substitute that melts well.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce That’s Not Too Thick?
Creating the perfect creamy sauce is key to this dish! Start by adding chicken broth and heavy cream gradually. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- After sautéing the onion and garlic, pour in the chicken broth first. This will help deglaze the pan and incorporate all those flavorful bits.
- Add the heavy cream slowly while stirring, allowing it to combine with the broth.
- Simmer gently—don’t boil—until it thickens slightly, which helps keep it silky. If it gets too thick, simply stir in a bit more broth or cream.
These tips will ensure your sauce remains creamy and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
For the Sausage and Sauce:
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy smoked sausage pasta will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and around 20 minutes to sauté the sausage, prepare the sauce, and combine everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the sausage is nicely browned on both sides. After that, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. If you’re using it, toss in the diced red bell pepper and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then add the smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Add Cheese to Create Creaminess:
Gradually stir in the shredded cheese, and let it melt while stirring until you have a smooth and creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the browned sausage to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the creamy sauce. Then add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your creamy smoked sausage pasta with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of color and added flavor. Enjoy your meal warm!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds great flavor, you can substitute it with Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage. Just adjust cooking times if needed, especially for raw sausages that require longer cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. There are many options available that mimic the texture of traditional pasta quite well. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Dish?
Definitely! This pasta is versatile, so feel free to add more veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for a balanced, flavorful dish!
