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
Scale
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.
