Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

If there’s one dish that’s sure to turn an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary, it’s the Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe. Bursting with rich flavors and silky textures, this comforting delight pairs savory sausage with a lusciously creamy sauce, making every bite a mesmerizing experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
  • Flavor Packed: Each ingredient, from fresh sage to parmesan, adds a delightful depth of flavor.
  • Customizable: Adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs with simple swaps.
Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple list of ingredients truly captures the essence of this dish, ensuring maximum flavor with minimal effort. Each one plays a crucial role, coming together to create a meal that’s as tempting to look at as it is to eat.

  • Butter: Adds a rich, creamy base and luscious depth to the sauce.
  • Brown Onion: Brings sweetness and a subtle aroma when sautéed.
  • Sausages: Choose quality pork and fennel sausages for the best flavor.
  • Fresh Sage Leaves: Delivers an earthy note that complements the sausage perfectly.
  • Fennel Seeds: Optional, but it adds a fragrant hint of anise.
  • Cream: Provides the essential creamy texture that defines this dish.
  • Black Pepper: Infuses a slight kick that enhances the flavors.
  • Parmesan: A must for a cheesy, savory burst.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity to cut through the richness.
  • Pasta of your choice: Acts as the perfect vehicle to soak up the sauce.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This recipe for Best Creamy Sausage Pasta is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to adjust it to suit your preferences, whether that’s a dietary requirement or simply a taste alteration.

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for mushrooms or a plant-based sausage substitute for a delightful vegetarian twist.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pasta to make this meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of well-salted water, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions, but stop just shy of al dente. This way, it can finish cooking in the scrumptious sauce, absorbing all those flavors without getting mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onions, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and transparent. Be careful to avoid browning as you want them sweet and tender. Set aside once perfectly cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

Increase the heat to medium-high and melt the remaining butter. Add the sausage meat, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Let it sit to develop color for about 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring it cooks through.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Reduce heat and nudge the sausage to one side of the pan. Pour in the cream and maintain a gentle simmer. Gradually incorporate the parmesan, allowing each portion to melt into the cream before adding more. Blend in black pepper and lemon juice for an extra zest.

Step 5: Assemble the Pasta

Introduce the semi-cooked pasta and the reserved onions back into the skillet. Let all these combine over a low flame, giving the pasta a chance to soak in that creamy, cheesy glory. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve with extra parmesan and lemon zest.

Pro Tips for Making Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

  • Pasta Perfection: Undercook your pasta slightly; it will finish cooking in the sauce, absorbing more flavor.
  • Onion Magic: Sauté onions without browning to keep their natural sweetness intact.
  • Whisk it Right: Incorporate cheese slowly into the cream, using a whisk for a velvety consistency.
  • Flavor Adjustment: Taste as you go; a pinch of salt or splash of lemon can elevate the dish immensely.

How to Serve Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top with freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an elegant touch. These additions not only enhance the presentation but also add an inviting aroma and refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy delight with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette or some crunchy garlic bread. The lightness of the salad and the crispness of the bread offer a delightful balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this pasta in shallow, wide bowls to highlight its creamy texture and toppings. A few crisp, fried sage leaves on top can also provide an aromatic layer and elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the pasta separate from the sauce can prevent it from absorbing too much cream and becoming mushy.

Freezing

While freezing is not ideal for cream-based sauces, you can freeze the sauce separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over low to regain its creamy texture before adding freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

  1. Can I use any type of sausage?

    Yes, feel free to use your preferred sausage variant, though pork and fennel bring out the best flavors in this recipe.

  2. What can I substitute for cream?

    Try using half-and-half or a milk and flour mixture for a lighter version while maintaining the creamy texture.

  3. Is fresh sage necessary, or can I use dried?

    Fresh sage is preferred for its aromatic depth, but a smaller quantity of dried sage can substitute when necessary.

  4. How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

    To keep the sauce from splitting, ensure it simmers gently and avoid boiling. Whisking in the cheese gradually helps as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe in your kitchen soon. It’s one of those dishes that deliver warmth and contentment with every bite, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Your feedback is heartily welcomed, so feel free to share your experience or any creative tweaks you make. Happy cooking!

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Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

Best Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 137 reviews
  • Author: Bertha
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This creamy sausage pasta recipe combines savory sausage with a rich, cheese-filled sauce, complemented by fresh sage and lemon for a delightful flavor. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal, it features tender pasta coated in a luscious creamy sauce with crispy browned sausage, topped with Parmesan and lemon zest for freshness.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Pasta

  • 200 grams pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 brown onion, thinly sliced
  • 220 grams sausage meat (about 3 sausages, casings removed)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 50 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon zest, for serving
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of well salted water and cook your pasta according to package instructions, undercooking by about a minute to prevent overcooking when combined with the sauce. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, pinch of salt, and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and glassy. Keep moving them around to prevent browning. Remove and set aside on a plate.
  3. Cook Sausage: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sausage meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add chopped sage and fennel seeds (if using), cooking for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  4. Prepare Cream Sauce: Push the sausage to one side of the pan. Lower heat to gentle simmer and add the cream. Allow it to warm and slightly thicken, ensuring it doesn’t boil. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese in two batches, letting each melt into the sauce before adding the next. Stir in black pepper and lemon juice, whisking quickly to combine.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed onions into the skillet. Toss everything together and let it bubble gently for 1–2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Taste and season with additional sea salt if needed. Loosen sauce with a splash of pasta water if desired.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh sage.
  • Fennel seeds are optional but add a lovely anise note that complements the sausage.
  • You can substitute the sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version.
  • If the sauce thickens too much, loosen with a bit of pasta water or extra cream.
  • This dish is best served immediately for optimal creaminess and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350 grams)
  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 grams
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 45 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 22 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 40 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Protein: 30 grams
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

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