When comfort calls, nothing satisfies quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Sausage Pasta. With its rich, velvety sauce, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers indulgent flavor in every forkful. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to earn a place at the weekend table too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Ultra-creamy sauce with just the right touch of spice
Simple ingredients, big comfort food payoff
Ready in about 30 minutes
Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers
Easy to adapt with veggies or alternative proteins
Ingredients for Creamy Sausage Pasta
Grab your shopping list—or just head to the pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
Penne pasta: This tubular shape holds the sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap it for your favorite pasta.
Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold adds flavor and helps brown the sausage.
Italian sausage: Choose between mild or spicy, depending on your heat preference. It’s the star of the dish!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the entire dish.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. For a lighter option, half-and-half works well.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it that irresistible cheesy flavor.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the dish’s flavor profile. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, swap the sausage for plant-based options or mushrooms for a vegetarian delight.
Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Pasta
Making creamy sausage pasta is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Once done, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water.
It’ll help adjust the sauce later!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
You want it browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, toss in the minced garlic.
Sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but be careful not to burn it.
That garlic will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your creamy sausage pasta.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.
If it’s too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet.
Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in that creamy sauce.
This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see the pasta transform into a comforting dish.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Finally, season your creamy sausage pasta with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove it from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
Serve it warm, and watch your loved ones dig in with delight!
Tips for Success
Always reserve some pasta water; it’s a secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency.
Don’t rush the browning of the sausage; it adds depth to the flavor.
For extra creaminess, let the sauce simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist.
Garnish generously with parsley for a fresh finish!
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling pasta; a Dutch oven works well too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for browning sausage and making the sauce.
Colander: To drain the pasta; a slotted spoon can also do the trick.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the sausage.
Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient measurements, though eyeballing can work in a pinch!
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free dish.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach, kale, or roasted bell peppers during the sauce creation for added nutrition and color.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a unique flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic pairing that complements the creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir for a delightful dining experience.
Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a restaurant-worthy look.
FAQs about Creamy Sausage Pasta
Can I make creamy sausage pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Can I freeze creamy sausage pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat!
What sides pair well with creamy sausage pasta?
Garlic bread and a fresh side salad are perfect companions. They balance the richness of the pasta and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking creamy sausage pasta is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the laughter shared around the table, and the satisfaction of a dish well-made all contribute to the joy of cooking.
This recipe is a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a dish that warms hearts and fills bellies.
So, gather your loved ones, serve up this creamy delight, and relish the moments that make life delicious!
A creamy and delicious pasta dish featuring Italian sausage, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
You can also add spinach or kale to the skillet in step 4 for added nutrition.
For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms.
