Garlic Butter Sausage Parmesan Pasta

There are nights when nothing satisfies like a bowl full of creamy Parmesan pasta with savory garlic butter sausage bites nestled on top The blend of smoky sausage garlicky butter and lush cheese sauce makes this dish both comforting and special enough to share with friends It is my go to recipe when I want something hearty and everyone always comes back for seconds

The first time I made this recipe was on a snowy night when the fridge was almost empty It was so good my family now asks for it at every birthday dinner

Ingredients

• Butter: brings out rich flavor in both sausage bites and creamy sauce Always choose high quality butter for best taste
• Fresh garlic: adds depth and warmth Minced fresh cloves make a big difference
• Olive oil: helps brown the sausage and infuses subtle flavor Go for extra virgin if possible
• Italian seasoning: adds herby brightness A good blend should smell vibrant not dusty
• Smoked or Italian sausage: provides the heartiness Look for well marbled sausage for juicy bites
• Pasta: such as fettuccine or penne holds onto the creamy sauce Choose one with sturdy texture
• Heavy cream: gives the sauce its luxurious feel Always pick one labeled heavy for thickness
• Grated Parmesan cheese: creates cheesy flavor Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre shredded
• Garlic powder: reinforces the garlicky profile Opt for one without added fillers
• Black pepper and salt: balance and sharpen all the flavors Use freshly ground black pepper if you can
• Fresh parsley: gives the finishing touch of color and freshness Flat leaf is more flavorful than curly

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the Sausage:

Slice your chosen sausage into bite sized rounds and pat them dry In a large skillet add olive oil and place over medium heat Once the oil is shimmering add the sausage Cook for four to five minutes turning halfway through so both sides get golden Remove the sausage and set aside

Make Garlic Butter:

Without wiping the skillet add the butter Swirl gently as it melts over medium heat Sprinkle in the minced garlic Stir constantly for one to two minutes until you notice the garlic becoming fragrant but not browned Return the browned sausage to the skillet Toss everything so the sausage is thoroughly coated Add Italian seasoning salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to taste Remove from heat then scatter chopped fresh parsley on top

Cook the Pasta:

Meanwhile bring a generous pot of salted water to a rolling boil Drop in your pasta stir and cook until it is just al dente usually about nine to ten minutes Test a piece for slight firmness Drain the pasta and set aside but save a little cooking water if you need it for the sauce

Make Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

In another saucepan melt butter over medium heat Pour in heavy cream and garlic powder Whisk constantly as the cream heats to just below a simmer Add the grated Parmesan a little at a time whisking until the sauce turns completely smooth and velvety Season as you go with salt and black pepper Taste and adjust so it is just right

Combine and Serve:

Add the drained pasta into the Parmesan sauce Toss gently until every strand or bite is coated Divide pasta among bowls and spoon the hot garlic butter sausage bites over the top Finish with a sprinkle of extra cheese and fresh parsley if desired

Save

I always look forward to the moment I stir the Parmesan cheese into the bubbling cream Watching it melt into a silky sauce reminds me of my grandmother who taught me to let the sauce cook low and slow for full flavor She never measured but always knew when it was perfect

Storing Your Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed The sausage may be reheated separately to maintain its crispness

Ingredient Swaps You Can Try

Swap in chicken sausage turkey sausage or even plant based sausage to suit your tastes Gluten free pasta works well if you have dietary needs Instead of heavy cream try half and half for a lighter version but the sauce will be less rich

How to Serve It Best

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to round out your plate Warm garlic bread makes the perfect side Use extra fresh parsley and parmesan on top for maximum flavor and presentation I sometimes like to finish with lemon zest for added freshness

A Quick Bit of History

While not a strict remake of any single Italian dish this meal is inspired by classic Italian American comfort classics The combination of sausage with creamy pasta sauce has roots in rustic peasant cooking where stretching a few ingredients into a full meal was tradition It is proof that a few humble ingredients can still deliver incredible results

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of sausage works best in this dish?

Smoked or Italian sausage adds robust flavor, but you can use your preferred sausage variety for a personalized touch.

→ How do I keep the pasta sauce creamy?

Reserve a bit of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed. Fresh grated Parmesan also helps create a smooth texture.

→ Can vegetables be added to the dish?

Yes, spinach or mushrooms make tasty additions. Sauté them before adding to the pasta and sausage for extra flavor.

→ What type of pasta should I use?

Fettuccine or penne is ideal, but any pasta that holds sauce well will work in this dish.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

→ Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.