Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines the rich flavors of sausage, garlic butter, and a velvety parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or an indulgent weekend dinner, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort. The combination of crispy, golden-brown sausage bites and creamy pasta ensures a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy schedule.
• Comfort food favorite – The creamy parmesan sauce coats the pasta beautifully, providing a luxurious taste.
• Simple ingredients – Uses pantry and fridge staples that are easy to find.
• Customizable – Can be adapted with different sausage types or added vegetables.
• Family-friendly – A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:

• 1 lb sausage (Italian, smoked, or your preferred type), sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Additional Parmesan for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
2. Once the butter is melted, add sliced sausage and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Return the sausage bites to the skillet, mixing well.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations and Additions

• Use a different protein – Try chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a unique twist.
• Add vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would complement the dish well.
• Spice it up – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• Try a different pasta – Swap traditional pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Freezing: The pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but the sausage bites can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes! Pre-cooked sausage can be used to save time. Simply slice and brown it in the garlic butter before adding to the pasta.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well because they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken, add a bit of flour or more Parmesan cheese.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.

Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are excellent substitutes for Parmesan.

What’s the best sausage for this dish?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) adds great flavor, but smoked sausage or kielbasa also work well.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Keep some pasta water on hand to loosen the sauce as needed.

Can I add a splash of wine to the sauce?

Absolutely! A splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce.

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for turkey or chicken sausage.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, but store the sauce separately from the pasta for best results when reheating.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a deliciously rich and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a quick yet impressive dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Try it today and enjoy a creamy, garlicky, and savory masterpiece!

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