This creamy pasta dish features tender smoked sausage and melty mozzarella, making it a warm and satisfying meal. Every bite is packed with flavor and comfort!
I love how quick this recipe is. Just cook the pasta, mix in the sausage, and stir in that gooey cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner, and it’s always a hit with the family! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works best for this dish. They hold the sauce well! You can swap in other shapes like fusilli or farfalle if you prefer, just keep cooking times in mind.
Smoked Sausage: I love using andouille or kielbasa for a nice smoky flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage also tastes great here!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream. Just be aware that the sauce may be a bit less rich.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is key for that gooey finish. If you can’t find it, try using provolone or fontina. Parmesan adds a nice nuttiness; pecorino romano would be tasty too!
Spices: The Italian seasoning gives this dish that classic flavor. You can use fresh herbs like basil or oregano if you have them. A hint of basil can brighten the flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Stays Al Dente?
Cooking pasta to the perfect firmness is crucial! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water — it should taste a bit like the sea.
- Add your pasta and give it a gentle stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, but check a minute before the suggested time. It should be firm but not hard to bite. This is al dente!
- Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. You can add it to your sauce for extra creaminess!
With these tips, you’ll serve up a delicious, creamy pasta dish everyone will love!
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage and Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful pasta dish will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and 15-20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook it until it’s nicely browned on both sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic happens!
5. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the Italian seasoning and add the red pepper flakes if you’d like a little kick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Add the Cheeses:
Gradually add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until everything is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. It should smell divine!
7. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked sausage back to the skillet along with the pasta. Toss everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy sauce and the sausage is evenly distributed.
8. Heat Through:
Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing everything to heat through. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the creamy smoked sausage and mozzarella pasta to plates, garnish with the freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy every comforting bite!
This creamy, cheesy pasta is loaded with smoky sausage, making it a perfect dish for any night of the week. Dig in and savor the yumminess!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use andouille, kielbasa, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each type will bring its unique flavor to the dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to revive the sauce!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream and broth.
