Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There are few combinations more comforting and satisfying than the richness of garlic butter paired with the savory flavors of sausage. When you add a creamy parmesan pasta into the mix, you create a dish that’s indulgent, flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to craft the ultimate garlic butter sausage with creamy parmesan pasta from scratch. The recipe is simple, yet its depth of flavor makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve pasta perfection every time.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Sausage

1. Remove sausage casing: If using sausage links, slit the casing with a knife and remove the meat. For pre-ground sausage, this step is unnecessary.

2. Break the sausage into chunks: Crumble the sausage into bite-sized pieces for better distribution throughout the pasta.

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3. Sauté the sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

Making the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add cream: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the cream from curdling.

3. Add cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Continue stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

4. Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if desired).

Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).

2. Reserve pasta water: Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water. This will help thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.

3. Combine with the sauce: Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the creamy parmesan sauce. Toss until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve broken down the preparation steps, let’s walk through the recipe:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, heat butter and cook the sausage over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and bring it to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.

3. Cook Pasta: Boil your pasta until al dente, then drain. Reserve pasta water.

4. Combine Pasta and Sausage: Toss the pasta into the creamy sauce, adding the cooked sausage. Stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

5. Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or additional parmesan. Serve hot.

Variations and Customizations

While this garlic butter sausage with creamy parmesan pasta recipe is already rich and flavorful, here are some variations and customizations you can try:

Spicy Sausage Option

Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while cooking. This will bring a delightful heat to the dish, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.

Vegan/Vegetarian Option

For a vegan or vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace the parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.

Gluten-Free Pasta Alternative

For gluten-free needs, simply swap the traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes be more delicate.

Advanced Tips for Cooking Success

Achieving the Perfect Sausage Sear

When cooking the sausage, make sure the pan is hot enough to sear the meat, as this will give it a rich, caramelized flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan—if necessary, cook the sausage in batches.

Creating the Ideal Creamy Sauce Texture

To ensure your sauce is perfectly smooth, constantly stir the cream as it simmers. If the sauce starts to separate or curdle, add a splash of pasta water or a bit more cream to bring it back together.

Perfecting Pasta Cooking Times

Always cook your pasta to al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce. Under-cooking the pasta slightly ensures that it will absorb the creamy sauce, giving it a better flavor and texture.

Serving and Plating Suggestions

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over the top and garnish with chopped parsley or basil. For a bit of texture, add crispy pancetta or crumbled bacon.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a light salad (think arugula with a lemon vinaigrette) or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the pasta.

Freezing

While you can freeze the sausage and sauce, the creaminess may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to store the sausage separately and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting the Creamy Sauce

If your sauce isn’t thickening, try adding a bit more parmesan or simmering it longer over low heat. If it’s too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it.

Preventing the Sausage from Becoming Dry

Cook the sausage in stages, ensuring it remains juicy by not overcooking. If necessary, add a little chicken broth or olive oil to the pan to keep it moist.

Conclusion: The Best Garlic Butter Sausage and Parmesan Pasta

The combination of garlic butter sausage and creamy parmesan pasta is a dish that’s sure to impress. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the knowledge you need to create this indulgent meal in your own kitchen. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious flavors!