This creamy smoked sausage pasta is simple, warm, and full of cozy flavor. The sauce turns silky and rich as it cooks, and the sausage adds a deep savory taste that makes this feel like an easy pasta dinner that still feels special. If you like very easy dinner recipes simple enough for weeknights, this one is worth saving. The whole dish comes together fast, smells amazing as it simmers, and has a creamy finish that clings to every bite.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the pasta until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Warm the olive oil in a large pan, then add the sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in the onion and cook until soft. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it thicken slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss until coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Let the pasta rest for one minute so the sauce can cling to each piece.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Do not boil the sauce. High heat can make the dairy separate.
- Do not skip browning the sausage. Browning adds flavor and makes this one of the most satisfying sausage recipes for dinner.
- Do not add the cheese too fast. Add it slowly so it melts into the sauce.
Tips For Success
- Use short pasta shapes for the best texture.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of broth.
- If you want a lighter sauce, swap half the cream with milk.
- For deeper flavor, brown the sausage until the edges crisp.
How To Serve
This pasta is creamy and filling, so simple sides work best. A green salad or roasted veggie plate adds balance. If you enjoy quick noodle style meals, you will love how fast this comes together. The soft sauce makes it perfect for quiet nights when you want something warm and cozy.
Flavor Add In Ideas
- Spinach for extra color
- Crushed red pepper for gentle heat
- Sun dried tomatoes for tang
- Fresh basil for a sweet herbal finish
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the pasta until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Warm the olive oil in a large pan, then add the sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in the onion and cook until soft. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it thicken slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss until coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Let the pasta rest for one minute so the sauce can cling to each piece.
Notes
Make Ahead And Storage
This dish reheats well and works nicely for Pasta Dishes For One if you portion it out. Keep leftovers in a sealed container for up to three days. The pasta may thicken as it rests, so add a spoon of broth or cream when warming. If you enjoy creamy pasta like this, you may also like this cheesy Parmesan pasta option.
FAQs
Why did my sauce turn grainy?
Cheese can clump if added too fast. Stir it in slowly so it melts smooth.
How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
Add a small splash of broth while warming. Cream sauces tighten as they cool.
Can I use a different meat?
Yes, turkey sausage or chicken sausage both work. For a fresh contrast on another night, try these cilantro lime steak bowls.
Conclusion
This creamy smoked sausage pasta is easy, rich, and perfect for nights when you want comfort fast. It fits right in with very easy dinner recipes simple enough for beginners, yet still full of flavor. If you try it, feel free to save or share the recipe so others can enjoy it too.