Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level – Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta. This recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s indulgent, flavorful, and downright comforting. Picture savory sausage, kissed with garlic butter, and tossed with creamy Parmesan-coated pasta – it’s a symphony of flavors that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.

In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality meal that strikes the perfect balance between richness and simplicity. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat your family to a special dinner, this Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is sure to hit the spot. The star of the show here is the Parmesan cheese – opt for the real deal, Parmigiano Reggiano, for a depth of flavor that pre-grated varieties simply can’t rival. Trust me, it’s worth the splurge for the difference it makes in the final dish.

And the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer chicken sausage, a plant-based alternative, or want to spice things up with some hot Italian sausage, feel free to make it your own. You can even customize the sauce with additions like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. With Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta, the possibilities are endless, making it a go-to meal that’s as adaptable as it is delicious.

Quick Benefits

• Indulgent yet simple dish that satisfies everyone at the table
• Versatile recipe allows for various adaptations: different types of sausages, pasta shapes, and sauce additions
• Make-ahead components make meal planning easy and efficient
• High-quality Parmesan cheese elevates the dish with depth and flavor

Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe Recipe

• Indulgent Yet Simple: Perfect for those looking for a satisfying and indulgent meal that is easy to make.
• Restaurant-Quality Dish: Offers a restaurant-quality experience with the savory sausage coated in garlicky butter and creamy Parmesan pasta.
• Quick and Easy: Comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by all at the table, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners or when hosting guests.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepared ahead of time, allowing for easy meal planning and quick assembly when ready to serve.
• Adaptable: Offers various options for customization, such as using different types of sausage, pasta shapes, or adding additional ingredients like mushrooms or spinach.
• Pairs Well with Sides: Goes great with lighter sides like salads or roasted vegetables, providing a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Leftover Tips: Provides guidance on storing and reheating leftovers to maintain the dish’s flavors and textures.

Ingredients for Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites

• Pepper, to taste
• 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt, to taste

Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)

Pro Tips for Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe

To elevate your garlic butter sausage pasta, consider using authentic Parmigiano Reggiano for a richer flavor that pre-grated alternatives can’t match. Keeping a wedge on hand specifically for this recipe can make a noticeable difference in the depth of your sauce. Additionally, preparing the sausage and garlic butter ahead of time can streamline your cooking process, making this indulgent dish a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

For a lighter version of this dish, opt for turkey or chicken sausage, or even plant-based alternatives. If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly. Adding fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dash of red pepper flakes as finishing touches can further enhance the flavors of this restaurant-quality meal. Remember that leftover pasta tends to absorb sauce as it sits, so store components separately and add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to maintain the sauce’s silky texture.

How to Make Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sliced sausage until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add sausage back to skillet, toss with garlic butter. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Coat the cooked pasta with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Serve the garlic butter sausage bites on top of the pasta. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the garlic butter sausage pasta, storing leftovers properly is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor. To store the dish, it’s recommended to separate the sausage and pasta components if possible. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming dry as it absorbs the sauce over time. Store the sausage and pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to the pasta to restore its creamy texture.

If you prefer to freeze portions of the garlic butter sausage pasta for later enjoyment, keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. However, the flavor remains delicious. To freeze the dish, store it in airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy the frozen pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can continue to savor the rich and indulgent flavors of this pasta dish even after the initial preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of this garlic butter sausage pasta, consider using turkey or chicken sausage instead of the traditional smoked or Italian sausage. Plant-based sausage alternatives also work well for vegetarians. These substitutions can reduce the overall fat content while still providing great flavor and texture.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream in the recipe. This swap will result in a slightly less rich and creamy sauce while still maintaining a good consistency. You can also consider reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe to further lighten the dish without compromising on taste.

When it comes to pasta choices, feel free to use fettuccine, penne, or any other sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce well. Different pasta shapes can bring variety to the dish while still offering a delicious base for the garlic butter sausage and creamy Parmesan sauce. Experimenting with different pasta shapes can add a fun twist to this versatile recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This indulgent garlic butter sausage pasta can be elevated further by serving it in individual mini cast iron skillets, creating a rustic and charming presentation for a dinner party or special occasion. Top each skillet with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a touch of freshness that enhances the flavors of the dish.

For a fun twist on traditional pasta presentations, consider serving this dish in hollowed-out Parmesan cheese bowls. Simply warm the Parmesan cheese in the oven until slightly melted and pliable, then shape it into bowls using the back of a spoon or small bowl. Fill each cheese bowl with the garlic butter sausage pasta, garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper and additional grated Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately for a unique and impressive dining experience.

FAQs for Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any smoked or fresh sausage like chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for this dish.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or any other sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce well is a great choice.

How can I make a lighter version of this dish?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly for a lighter version.

Can I prepare any components of this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter sausage bites and sauce ahead, then cook and combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is truly a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household just as it has in mine. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the savory sausage and aromatic garlic butter creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe. Experiment with different types of sausage, pasta shapes, and additional ingredients to make it your own. The adaptability of Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta allows you to tailor it to your preferences and seasonal produce availability. So go ahead, have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy the delicious results of this indulgent yet simple dish. Cheers to many more memorable meals centered around Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta in your home!

Savory Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta Recipe

Indulge in a restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta; a savory, creamy, and easy dish that is sure to impress in just 35 minutes!

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Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineItalian-American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites

• Pepper, to taste
• 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt, to taste

Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sliced sausage until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Butter: In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add sausage back to skillet, toss with garlic butter. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley.
3. Cook the Pasta: 1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: 1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine and Serve: Coat the cooked pasta with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Serve the garlic butter sausage bites on top of the pasta. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.