Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food combining bold, savory flavors in every bite. This dish features golden-browned sausage bites coated in rich garlic butter paired with a creamy, cheesy Parmesan pasta. It’s an easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekend dinners. Packed with flavor, this meal is satisfying and comes together in under 45 minutes, making it an instant favorite for the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sear the Sausage Bites
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the sausage slices in a single layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the sausage bites from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add olive oil and heavy cream. Simmer over low heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Add Sausage Bites
Return the garlic butter sausage bites to the skillet. Toss gently to distribute them throughout the pasta. Allow everything to heat through for 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta and sausage to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Use spicy sausage or add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetable Additions: Include sautéed spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Cooking Notes
- Cheese Alternatives: Pecorino Romano can be used instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Complement with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips
- For even more flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine after cooking the sausage.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and creamy texture.
- Stir frequently while making the sauce to prevent it from sticking or separating.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 26g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 38g
FAQs
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. To thicken it, add a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch.
Q: What kind of sausage works best? Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even Italian sausage are excellent choices for this dish.
Q: How can I make this ahead of time? Prepare the sausage and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and combine everything to reheat.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delectable dish that brings together simple, bold ingredients for a meal that’s sure to impress. From the savory sausage bites coated in aromatic garlic butter to the creamy Parmesan-coated pasta, every bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep, this recipe is a go-to comfort food classic. Try it tonight and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make!
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Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sear the Sausage Bites
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the sausage slices in a single layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the sausage bites from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add olive oil and heavy cream. Simmer over low heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Add Sausage Bites
Return the garlic butter sausage bites to the skillet. Toss gently to distribute them throughout the pasta. Allow everything to heat through for 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta and sausage to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.