Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta – A Rich

If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and ultra-satisfying meal, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a must-try! Made with smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or comforting dinners.

With just one pan and simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to make, full of bold flavors, and sure to be a family favorite!

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Ingredients for Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

the Pasta Dish:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz (340g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
• ½ cup (1 small) onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)

Garnishing (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

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

2. Sauté the Smoked Sausage

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
3. Remove the sausage and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics & Build Flavor

1. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes, until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and cream cheese, whisking until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.

5. Combine Everything & Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage back to the skillet.
2. Stir well, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.

6. Garnish & Enjoy!

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smoky, and cheesy flavors!

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Expert Tips for the Best Smoked Sausage Pasta

Use high-quality smoked sausage – Kielbasa, andouille, or turkey sausage work well.
Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
Make it extra creamy – Add more cream cheese or a splash of milk if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the browning step – This enhances the sausage’s smoky flavor.
Not whisking the sauce well – This ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Using pre-shredded cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better and makes the sauce smoother.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
• Top with crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and smoky flavor.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat over low heat with a splash of milk or broth.
• Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Freezing:

• While possible, the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed. For best results, freeze without the cream, then add fresh cream when reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use a different protein – Swap sausage for grilled chicken, shrimp, or ground turkey.
• Make it spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Try different cheeses – Monterey Jack, gouda, or mozzarella work great!

What to Serve with Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus
• A warm loaf of crusty bread
• Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes! Use whole milk and a little extra cream cheese to maintain creaminess.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work best, as they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Just store the sauce separately and mix with fresh pasta when reheating.

Conclusion

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the ultimate one-pan comfort food, packed with bold, smoky flavors and a rich, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress!

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more comforting, easy meal ideas!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 580 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4

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