Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Name: Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; Salt for boiling water; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight in this creamy smoked sausage pasta that combines rich flavors with a quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknight dinners. This comforting dish features tender pasta, savory smoked sausage, and a luscious creamy sauce, making it an instant family favorite. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs for an extra touch that will make your taste buds sing.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2025-11-14T12:19:02.968Z

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both satisfying and simple to prepare.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation
Rich and creamy flavor
Kid-friendly dish
Versatile with ingredient variations

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

This creamy smoked sausage pasta is the ideal solution for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal but are short on time. With simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, you can whip up this comforting dish in under 30 minutes. It’s a reliable go-to recipe that takes away the stress of dinner prep while ensuring a satisfying meal for the whole family.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the smoked sausage for other proteins, like grilled chicken or even a plant-based sausage, depending on your dietary preferences. This versatility makes it not only a crowd-pleaser but also a recipe that can evolve with your family's tastes.

Creamy Sauce Made Easy

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the rich and creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and sausage, offering a luxurious texture that kids and adults alike will find irresistible. By using heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth, you create a sauce that is both indulgent and comforting, bringing depth of flavor to the entire dish.

Finishing it off with fresh garlic not only elevates the overall taste but also fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma while cooking. This easy-to-make sauce is a fundamental component of the recipe, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
Salt for boiling water

Sausage

12 oz smoked sausage, sliced

Creamy Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready to go before starting the cooking process.

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creamy smoked sausage pasta!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers after making this creamy smoked sausage pasta, you'll be pleased to know that it stores quite well in the refrigerator! Simply place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore the creamy consistency and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

For even longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Although it may slightly alter the texture, freezing allows for easy meal prep for later weeks. Just make sure to cool the pasta completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your creamy smoked sausage pasta, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can perfectly balance the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast with every bite. Additionally, garlic bread is an excellent way to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

You can also experiment with different toppings. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, while additional Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavors of the dish even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, including turkey or chicken sausage.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Just combine and reheat when ready to serve.