Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
A rich and flavorful comfort dish combining smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced Pick your favorite kind, whether spicy or mild!
- 12 oz penne pasta A great shape for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and prevents sticking.
- 1 small onion, diced Balancing sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for Italian flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Luxuriously creamy; can substitute with half-and-half.
- 1 cup chicken broth Adds flavor; vegetable broth is a suitable alternative.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For creamy melty goodness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Herb blend for added flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika Adds warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste For flavor balance.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Offers color and freshness.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Sausage
- In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Adding Aromatics
- Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Making It Creamy
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let bubble for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combining with Pasta
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir until coated in sauce. Mix in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
Serving
- Plate the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley.
Notes
Pro tips: Don’t overcook the pasta, use high-quality sausage, adjust seasoning to your taste, and consider adding a splash of lemon for brightness. Variations include using different pasta shapes, adding veggies, or using spicy elements like red pepper flakes.