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Delicious Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Delicious Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
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A quick and comforting creamy smoked sausage pasta that combines smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce with fresh greens. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz smoked sausage, diced
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes (for vegetable boost)
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk or cashew cream (for dairy-free option, replace heavy cream)
  • Chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes (for spicier variation)
  • Chicken sausage or turkey sausage (for protein swap)
  • Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or smoked paprika (for added flavor)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set pasta aside.
  2. Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Sausage: In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and diced smoked sausage, cooking until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy to enhance its smoky flavor.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the sausage mixture and stir to combine. Simmer gently until it reduces slightly, then mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sausage sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired creaminess and consistency are achieved.
  5. Add Greens and Finish: Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook just until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use Quality Sausage: Select a smoked sausage brand with bold, even smoky flavors for best taste.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep pasta al dente to maintain texture when combined with the sauce.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: It helps loosen the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta perfectly.
  • Add Cheese Last: Incorporate Parmesan at the end to avoid curdling and maintain a smooth sauce.
  • Fresh Greens: Use fresh spinach or kale to brighten the dish and add nutrients without overpowering flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked sausage pasta, creamy sausage pasta, quick comfort food, weeknight dinner, creamy pasta recipe, sausage pasta skillet

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/delicious-creamy-smoked-sausage-pasta-recipe/