Here’s a delicious recipe for Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine works well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced into ¼-inch rounds)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sausage: Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This creamy smoked sausage pasta is rich and flavorful with a smoky kick, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.