Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

This creamy smoked sausage pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It combines savory smoked sausage, a rich creamy sauce, and penne pasta, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. The addition of mozzarella cheese makes the sauce extra creamy, while the Italian seasoning and paprika give it a delightful depth of flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with taste. Whether you’re cooking for a small group or feeding the whole family, this creamy smoked sausage pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why this creamy smoked sausage pasta will become a go-to in your kitchen. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep and cooking time. The dish is rich and comforting, with just the right balance of creamy sauce and smoky sausage. The pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors, making each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal for yourself or serving a crowd, this recipe is a perfect solution.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• Smoked sausage, sliced
• Penne pasta
• Olive oil
• Small onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

While this creamy smoked sausage pasta is delicious as-is, there are a few ways you can customize it to suit your preferences.

1. Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor. These can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic.
2. Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
3. Different Sausages: Swap the smoked sausage for Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even kielbasa for a slightly different taste.
4. Cheese Options: Instead of mozzarella, you can use cheddar or Parmesan for a different cheese flavor.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic

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

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Sausage

Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and cooked sausage. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sausage is heated through.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is well combined, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta until just al dente so it doesn’t become too soft and mushy when added to the sauce.
2. Use a Large Skillet: A large skillet helps everything cook evenly, especially when you’re tossing the pasta in the sauce.
3. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to your liking.
4. Make it Creamier: For a richer sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
5. Leftover Pasta: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of milk to bring the creaminess back.

How to Serve

This creamy smoked sausage pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. It also goes well with a light vegetable side, like roasted broccoli or steamed asparagus, to add some freshness and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, though the creaminess might change slightly once thawed. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftover pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute the smoked sausage with any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, kielbasa, or chicken sausage.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. However, the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the sausage and use a plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to create a vegetarian version.

5. How can I make the pasta spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.

6. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

7. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the sauce might not be as creamy once reheated.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or provolone, depending on your taste preferences.

Conclusion

This creamy smoked sausage pasta is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that everyone will love. With a rich and creamy sauce, savory smoked sausage, and hearty penne pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s such a crowd-pleaser!

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