Delicious Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Savor a comforting and hearty Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta that combines smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe balances rich flavors and ease, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta is used)
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage (kielbasa or Andouille), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup baby spinach or kale
- Red pepper flakes or jalapeños (for spicy kick)
- Cream cheese or mozzarella (for extra creaminess)
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or thyme) for garnish
- Olive oil or balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Prepare the Pasta: 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, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Cook the Smoked Sausage: Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add a touch of oil, and sauté the sausage until browned and fragrant with a smoky aroma.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add butter and toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, adding sweet and savory depth to the base.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the sautéed ingredients. Let it simmer gently to thicken. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sausage Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and sausage back into the skillet, tossing well to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Finish with Greens and Serve: Stir in baby spinach or kale just before serving, allowing the greens to wilt slightly. Serve hot, garnished with herbs, extra Parmesan, and black pepper as desired.
Notes
- Choose quality smoked sausage to enhance smoky flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente for better texture when mixed with sauce.
- Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for the richest flavor and smoothest melting.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness instead of adding more cream.
- Cook cream sauce on low to medium heat to prevent curdling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: smoked sausage pasta, creamy pasta recipe, quick pasta dinner, weeknight meals, comforting pasta, kielbasa pasta, Andouille sausage pasta