Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish. The rich, creamy sauce combined with smoky sausage and tender penne pasta creates a meal that’s satisfying and full of taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

The smoky sausage adds a savory depth to the dish, while the creamy sauce binds everything together for a perfect balance of flavors. Italian seasoning and paprika lend warmth and depth to the sauce, making each bite absolutely delicious. Best of all, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time to cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta offers everything you need in one dish: rich flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying ingredients. The smoked sausage brings a delightful smokiness to the pasta, while the creamy sauce gives it a velvety finish that will make you want to dive in for more. With simple ingredients, easy prep, and minimal clean-up, this recipe is a win for any weeknight dinner. The addition of mozzarella cheese ensures the dish is extra creamy and indulgent, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

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)

Variations

While this creamy smoked sausage pasta is amazing on its own, there are a few variations you can try:

Add Veggies

Feel free to add some vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, for extra flavor and texture. These will complement the sausage and add a bit of freshness to the creamy pasta.

Use Different Pasta

While penne works great, you can substitute any type of pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti, depending on what you have on hand.

Make It Spicy

If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Use Different Sausage

Feel free to experiment with other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or chicken sausage, for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Sausage and Pasta

Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and stir until the cheese has melted into the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese has melted and the pasta is well-coated, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it retains its texture when combined with the creamy sauce.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet makes it easier to cook the sausage without it sticking to the pan, which helps ensure even browning.
• Save Some Pasta Water: If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a bit of the pasta cooking water to help thin it out and bring everything together.

How to Serve

This creamy smoked sausage pasta is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with:

• A side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
• Garlic bread: Serve with a slice of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Steamed vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for an extra serving of vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy smoked sausage pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk or chicken broth if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute smoked sausage with other types of sausage like Italian sausage or chicken sausage.

2. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the dish, though the sauce will be less rich.

3. Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be a great way to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

7. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, you can use vegetarian sausage or omit the sausage altogether and add more vegetables.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this pasta. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

9. Can I make this recipe in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to cook.

10. Can I add more seasoning to this dish?

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or extra Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors, creamy texture, and smoky sausage. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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