If you are craving a dish that combines comforting creaminess with the smoky, savory depth of sausage, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s the perfect blend of tender pasta enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce with just the right kick of spices and that irresistible smokiness from the sausage. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself after a long day, this recipe is so quick and satisfying, it truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. I’m excited to share every detail because once you try this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the perfect harmony of each ingredient. Every item, from the smoky kielbasa to the silky heavy cream, contributes something special to the final dish — flavor, texture, or just that beautiful pop of color.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce wonderfully, making every bite flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity base to sauté the sausage and veggies perfectly.
- 14 ounces smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced into rounds: The star ingredient that brings smoky, savory richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory foundation that elevates the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a punch of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat, this wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian vibes.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps thin the sauce just enough while adding savory layers of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, velvety texture that clings to every noodle.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts cheesy richness and brings a salty, nutty finish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta in plenty of salted water until it’s just al dente—tender but with a bit of bite. This is essential since the pasta will finish cooking a little bit when tossed in the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is a handy trick for loosening the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil and add your sliced smoked sausage. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes so it develops a beautiful brown crust, locking in those smoky flavors. Browning adds so much depth, making every bite savory and satisfying.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic with Spices
Next, toss in diced onions to the skillet and cook until they become soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Then stir in the minced garlic along with red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cooking these together until fragrant—about 30 seconds—helps all the flavors marry perfectly in the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step is where the sauce starts to thicken and develop its creamy body. After a few minutes, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slowly and enrich the sauce with its savory, cheesy goodness. Season with salt and black pepper to suit your taste buds.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and gently toss everything together so every piece is coated in that dreamy sauce. If the sauce feels a little thick, splash in some of your reserved pasta water to reach the perfect consistency. This trick keeps the sauce silky and well balanced without getting too heavy.
How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. It adds a lovely burst of color and a subtle herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. Don’t be shy about adding an extra handful of Parmesan cheese for more gooey goodness too!
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with light sides that offer contrast — think a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. The fresh veggies provide a refreshing balance to the creamy, smoky main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the pasta in rustic bowls or on large plates with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra zing. You can also nestle some baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the pasta before serving for a colorful, veggie-packed option that looks and tastes amazing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to mingle and deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even more delicious.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, the sauce may separate slightly, but reheating slowly with a little added cream or broth helps bring back the luscious texture.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even warming without drying out or overcooking the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked kielbasa brings great flavor, you can swap in turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version, or even spicy sausage if you want a little extra heat.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this pasta dish?
Yes! Stirring in baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli just before serving adds nutrition, color, and texture without overpowering the creamy smoked sausage base.
What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
Penne and rotini are perfect for this dish because their twists and tubes catch the creamy sauce beautifully, but you can use other shapes you have on hand like fusilli or rigatoni.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and using a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary from the classic, rich original.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that’s easily adjustable—feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder pasta or increase for a bolder kick.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, smoky, and cheesy pasta to brighten your day and warm your soul. This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and homey at the same time. I hope you have as much fun making it as I do sharing it, and that it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation. Grab your skillet and get ready for a delicious adventure—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful American main course featuring tender pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce with browned smoked sausage, onions, and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe combines smoky kielbasa with Italian seasoning and a hint of spice for a comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 14 ounces smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced into rounds
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra veggies, stir in baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli at the end of cooking.
- Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version of this dish.
