If you’re searching for a dish that’s a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and creamy indulgence, look no further than this Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly but feels like a special occasion on a plate. The juicy, golden-browned Italian sausage mingles wonderfully with the garlic-infused butter and luscious Parmesan cream sauce, enveloping every strand of pasta in warm, cheesy goodness. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to something outstanding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but handpicked to deliver maximum flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fragrant garlic that wakes up the palate to the creamy Parmesan that binds everything together with richness.
- Italian sausages: Choose quality sausages for that perfect juicy bite and robust seasoning that forms the heart of the dish.
- Fresh garlic: Adds a fragrant, savory kick that elevates the sauce to new heights.
- Pasta (fettuccine or penne): Pick your favorite shape to soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess, making the sauce rich without overpowering the sausage.
- Parmesan cheese: The star cheese that melts smoothly to add sharp, nutty depth to the sauce.
- Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and sausage, contributing to a silky finish.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a vibrant touch of color and fresh herbal notes to lighten the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by slicing the Italian sausages into bite-sized pieces, then sauté them in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until they develop a deep golden brown color and crispy edges, about 5 to 7 minutes. This provides wonderful texture and releases flavorful fat to the pan, which will infuse the sauce.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Butter
Once the sausage is beautifully browned, add minced fresh garlic and butter directly to the skillet. Cook together for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the butter melts into a smooth, glossy base. This step is where the dish builds its incredibly aromatic foundation.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Prepare your pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente so it holds up well with the creamy sauce. Before draining, save about half a cup of the starchy pasta water—this will help thin the sauce later, ensuring it clings perfectly to every noodle.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the sausage and butter, stirring gently. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a silky, cheesy sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it thoroughly with the sauce so every piece is coated with that velvety richness. This step ensures a perfectly unified dish where the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Parsley, Salt, and Pepper
Finally, stir in freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Season to taste with salt and pepper to balance the richness and elevate all the flavors to perfection. Serve immediately while warm and inviting.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a few cracked black peppercorns on top adds an inviting final touch. A small handful of chopped parsley or basil leaves not only brightens the plate visually but also adds a fresh herbal note that contrasts the richness of the sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs effortlessly with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cleanse the palate. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side is fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that luscious Parmesan sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the pasta family-style in a large rustic bowl garnished with a parsley bouquet. Alternatively, plate individual servings and drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil and cracked red pepper flakes for a gourmet twist that wows your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more after resting overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the cream sauce may change texture slightly upon thawing, but reheating gently with a splash of milk or cream will bring it back to creamy perfection.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a small amount of cream or reserved pasta water while reheating helps restore the silky sauce consistency without drying out the pasta or sausage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional and flavorful, kielbasa or chorizo can work well, offering different flavor profiles that still complement the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully.
Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting smoothly and delivering the richest flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch. Just be aware it may not melt quite as well and can affect the sauce texture slightly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture, but you could substitute with dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan cheese. However, the flavor and creaminess won’t be quite the same. Using plant-based sausage options also helps adapt it to vegan diets.
What pasta shapes work best for the Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
Fettuccine or penne are classic choices that hold the sauce well, but feel free to experiment with rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti—the key is selecting a pasta that clings nicely to the sauce.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken, add more grated Parmesan gradually while stirring. To thin the sauce, stir in reserved pasta water or a little extra cream until you get the perfect consistency for coating the pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. It’s easy enough for a weekday dinner but lush and impressive enough to serve to guests. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to favorite. So grab your skillet, break out the Parmesan, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy, garlicky, and utterly satisfying pasta masterpiece.
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Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and comforting Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe that combines savory Italian sausages sautéed with fragrant garlic and butter, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, garnished with fresh parsley for a delicious, easy-to-make meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Sausage and Sauce
- 4 Italian sausages, sliced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Instructions
- Sauté Sausages: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced Italian sausages and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet with the sausages. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the butter has melted, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook Pasta: While the sausage cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Make Parmesan Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat on the skillet to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce and sausage. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor and creaminess compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Italian sausages can be substituted with chicken or turkey sausages for a leaner option.
- For a garlic boost, you can add an extra clove or two of garlic to the sauce if desired.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
