Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious, this Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender penne pasta tossed with rich, velvety cream sauce, perfectly seasoned pork sausage, and just the right touch of pasta water magic to bring it all together. This recipe is a quick yet indulgent meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for bringing friends or family together around the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role—from the perfectly cooked pasta creating a satisfying bite, to the hearty sausage adding savory depth, and the heavy cream bringing irresistible creaminess. These basics come together effortlessly to create a memorable dish.
- 8 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its sturdy shape that holds onto the luscious sauce perfectly.
- 2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the boiling water, it ensures your pasta is flavorful from the inside out.
- 1 pound sausage (Jimmy Dean regular pork sausage recommended): Use a quality pork sausage to add rich, meaty flavor and a hint of spice.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The key to that indulgent, silky sauce that coats every bite beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil, adding 2 teaspoons of salt. This step is crucial to infuse the pasta with flavor. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente—tender but still firm to the bite—which will give you the best texture when combined with the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a large pan over medium-high heat and brown the sausage thoroughly. This step develops the sausage’s rich flavors and adds a wonderful aroma to the kitchen. If you like, toss in some minced garlic or chopped green peppers for an extra flavor boost that complements the sausage beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Before draining the pasta, reserve half a cup of that flavorful pasta water. This starchy water is pure magic when making sauces—it helps them cling to pasta and enhances texture. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate to rest, then deglaze the hot pan with the reserved pasta water to capture all the delicious browned bits. Lower the heat to medium, add the heavy cream, and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes luxuriously creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Drain your penne pasta and add it directly into the sauce, stirring carefully to coat each piece with that creamy goodness. Return the sausage to the pan, mix everything together, and get ready to serve. The layering of flavors here is absolute perfection, creating a cozy, satisfying meal you’ll want again and again.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe to the next level. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own but pairing it with crisp green salad or steamed vegetables provides a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes an excellent side, perfect for sopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the creamy sausage pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or pretty shallow bowls to keep it warm and visually inviting. You might even layer it in a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust—comfort food at its finest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the pasta without the cream sauce for best results. Pasta can get a bit mushy if frozen with creamy sauces, so it’s a good idea to prepare and freeze the components separately and combine them fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce needs to loosen up. This method preserves the sauce’s creamy texture and prevents the sausage from drying out, letting your leftovers taste just as delicious as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust cooking times to keep the pasta al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, adding the same heavy cream sauce for that luscious texture.
Can I reduce the fat content in this Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe?
Sure, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Using leaner sausage can also help lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
What is the purpose of reserving pasta water?
Reserving pasta water adds starch to your sauce, helping it thicken and cling better to the pasta for a silky, well-coated dish. It’s a simple trick that makes all the difference in the final texture.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, peas, or bell peppers make tasty additions that add color, nutrients, and a fresh contrast to the creamy sausage pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s the kind of meal that feels effortless yet incredibly satisfying. With a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you get to enjoy a rich, comforting dish that feels truly homemade. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones—prepare to make this one a fast favorite in your kitchen!
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Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy sausage pasta that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender penne pasta with savory cooked sausage and a luscious heavy cream sauce, enhanced by a simple deglazing step to meld the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tsp salt
Sausage and Sauce
- 1 pound sausage (Jimmy Dean regular pork sausage recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Add 2 teaspoons of salt to a large pot of boiling water. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.
- Cook the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook thoroughly until browned and no longer pink inside, about 7-8 minutes. For added flavor, optionally add minced garlic or chopped green peppers during this step.
- Prepare the Sauce: Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate. Deglaze the pan by adding the reserved pasta water to the hot sausage pan, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Drain the pasta well and add it directly into the cream sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly. Return the sausage to the pan and mix to combine everything. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can customize the sausage by choosing spicy or mild according to your preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
- Adding sautéed garlic or diced green peppers enhances the flavor but is optional.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
