Description
Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this Garlic Butter Sausage Bites Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, caramelized sausage bites tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce and served over creamy Parmesan pasta make this dish irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing your guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage Bites:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring until the mixture begins to simmer gently.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta, then top with the garlic butter sausage bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy, and savory flavors of this comforting dish.
Notes
- Sausage Options: Smoked sausage adds a bold flavor, but Italian sausage or chicken sausage can be used for variety.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier dish or omit them for a milder version.
- Pasta Water Magic: The reserved pasta water helps create a silky, cohesive sauce if needed.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers make excellent additions to this dish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian-American