Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of comfort with a dish that promises to elevate your weeknight routine – Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta. This recipe is a delightful fusion of smoky kielbasa, al dente pasta, and a luxurious pink Parmesan cream sauce that comes together in just thirty minutes. It’s the perfect harmony of robust, tangy, and creamy notes, offering a satisfying homemade dinner solution even on your busiest days.

I first shared this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta recipe with my neighbor Tom, a single dad in need of quick, flavorful meals. It quickly became his go-to “dad win” dinner, striking the perfect balance between convenience and culinary triumph. Since then, this dish has made its way through his office and beyond, proving that simple yet delicious recipes have a way of bringing joy and satisfaction to the table.

Remember, when making this dish, stick to heavy cream for that velvety finish, and don’t be afraid to customize. Spice things up with andouille sausage and red pepper flakes or add some freshness with wilted spinach. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or a food enthusiast looking for a reliable recipe, Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is here to make your dinnertime a flavorful affair.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Balanced Flavors: Savory, tangy, and creamy notes come together perfectly.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different sausage varieties and additional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms.
• Long-lasting: Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days and frozen for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Restaurant-Quality Comfort: Enjoy the robust, smoky flavor of browned kielbasa paired with tender pasta shells and a luscious pink Parmesan cream sauce that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
• Simple Pantry Ingredients: Utilize basic pantry staples like tomato sauce and heavy cream to create a meal that feels intentional and sophisticated without a long shopping list.
• Balanced Flavors: This dish offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy notes, making it a hit with the whole family and satisfying a variety of taste preferences.
• Versatile: Customize the recipe by using andouille sausage for a spicy kick, adding red pepper flakes, spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to cater to your personal taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, and easily reheat with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the creamy texture.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, though be prepared to give the dish a good stir during reheating to bring back the emulsified cream sauce.
• Indulgent and Satisfying: With its velvety cream sauce and smoky kielbasa, this creamy smoked sausage pasta is a high-impact dish that respects your time while rewarding your palate with indulgent flavors.

Ingredients for Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 16 oz box pasta
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 12 oz package kielbasa sausage
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Dried parsley for garnish

How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook pasta

Prepare the pasta as per the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the sausage

Slice the kielbasa and brown in a large pan over medium heat. Remove from pan and set aside once browned.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In the same pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic. Add heavy cream, tomato sauce, tomato paste, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Combine and serve

Combine drained pasta with sauce, toss to coat. Return browned kielbasa to pan and mix. Serve topped with extra parmesan cheese and dried parsley.

Storage Tips

After preparing the creamy smoked sausage pasta, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Due to the nature of pasta absorbing moisture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating the dish either on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain its creamy consistency.

If you wish to freeze the dish for later consumption, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To remedy this, give the pasta a good stir during reheating to bring back the emulsified texture of the sauce. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy this flavorful pasta dish even after the initial preparation, allowing for convenient and delicious meals throughout the week.

Ingredient Substitutions

When making the creamy smoked sausage pasta, consider using alternative types of sausage for different flavor profiles. For instance, if you prefer a spicier dish, try substituting the kielbasa with andouille sausage and adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. This change will add a Cajun twist to the recipe, bringing a nice kick of heat to the creamy pasta dish.

If you want to incorporate more vegetables into the dish, consider adding fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms along with the garlic. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value of the meal but also introduce new textures and flavors. You can also include sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and sweet element that pairs well with the smoky sausage and creamy sauce.

Remember that when reheating leftovers, the pasta may have absorbed more moisture, so a splash of milk or cream may be needed to revive the dish’s creaminess. Additionally, freezing the pasta is possible, but be aware that the cream sauce may separate slightly. To remedy this, give the pasta a good stir during reheating to help restore the emulsion.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the creamy smoked sausage pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a charming and rustic presentation. Top each portion with a sprinkle of extra shredded parmesan cheese and a pinch of dried parsley for a pop of color. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Another fun idea is to turn the creamy smoked sausage pasta into a hearty pasta bake. Simply transfer the cooked pasta mixture into a baking dish, top with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This transforms the dish into a comforting and shareable meal perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Serve with garlic breadsticks or a side of roasted vegetables to round out the meal and impress your guests with this elevated twist on a classic pasta dish.

FAQs for Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Can I substitute heavy cream with milk in this recipe?

It’s not recommended to substitute heavy cream with milk in this recipe. The acidity in the tomatoes can cause lower-fat milks to break and curdle, leaving you with a grainy sauce. Stick to heavy cream for a velvety, restaurant-style finish.

How can I reduce the acidity of the tomato sauce if needed?

If your brand of tomato sauce feels too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar to help balance it out. This can help mellow the acidity and create a more harmonious flavor profile for the dish.

How should I store leftovers of the creamy smoked sausage pasta?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Since the pasta tends to absorb moisture, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the desired creamy consistency.

Can I freeze the creamy smoked sausage pasta?

You can freeze the creamy smoked sausage pasta for up to 2 months. However, be aware that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To restore the emulsion, vigorously stir the dish during reheating to bring back the desired creamy texture.

Conclusion

As you embark on your culinary journey with Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta, remember that the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household. By following these steps and tips, you can recreate a delightful restaurant-worthy meal right in the comfort of your own kitchen.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, embrace the comforting aromas that will soon fill your kitchen, and savor each bite of this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta creation. Let the flavors of smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta transport you to a place of culinary bliss. Remember, cooking is an adventure meant to be enjoyed, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. Cheers to many more delicious meals and memorable moments shared around the dinner table with Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta!

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta: A comforting dish marrying smoky kielbasa with a velvety Parmesan cream sauce in just 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 16 oz box pasta
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 12 oz package kielbasa sausage
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Dried parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta: Prepare the pasta as per the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the sausage: Slice the kielbasa and brown in a large pan over medium heat. Remove from pan and set aside once browned.
3. Make the sauce: In the same pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic. Add heavy cream, tomato sauce, tomato paste, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Simmer: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine and serve: Combine drained pasta with sauce, toss to coat. Return browned kielbasa to pan and mix. Serve topped with extra parmesan cheese and dried parsley.