This easy sausage pasta recipe is a game-changer for those busy weeknights when you want comfort food fast. This dish has tender garlic butter sausage bites.
A rich creamy Parmesan sauce covers the pasta. You can make it in just 30 minutes. Indulgent, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sausage Bites
- 1 lb sausage (Italian, spicy, or your choice)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning sauce)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions for Preparing Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the sausage and break it into bite-sized pieces with a spoon. Sprinkle with black pepper.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage browns and cooks fully. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: For a pop of color and added flavor, toss in diced bell peppers while cooking the sausage.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and gently warm over medium-high heat, making sure it doesn’t boil.
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt to taste. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding reserved pasta water or a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Gently mix the garlic butter sausage bites into the mixture, ensuring you combine everything.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added brightness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, savory pasta dish!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Fresh Parmesan cheese melts smoother than pre-grated options, ensuring a velvety sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the pasta slightly firm to hold up to the rich cream sauce.
- Add bell peppers or spinach for color and nutrition.
- Thin the Sauce Smartly: Use a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta recipe is a lifesaver for hectic evenings. Garlic butter sausage bites with creamy Parmesan sauce are incredibly comforting. The easy preparation makes this dish suitable for everyone. Ready in just 20-30 minutes, this meal is perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Dietary Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Duration: 15-20 minutes
- Overall Time: 30 minutes
- Caloric Content: Approximately 600 kcal per portion
- Servings: 4
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different sausage?
Yes! Spicy, chicken, or plant-based sausages work beautifully in this recipe.
What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Fettuccine, spaghetti, or short shapes like penne are great options. The sauce clings well to all of them.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer to reduce, or add extra grated Parmesan. A small cornstarch slurry can also help.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach pair well with the creamy sauce and sausage.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a quick and tasty meal. It mixes rich, garlicky sausage with creamy pasta.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. A favorite in your sausage pasta collection will emerge. Simple to make, utterly delicious, and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a pasta dish worth savoring.