This creamy sausage Alfredo is comfort food at its best! With juicy sausage and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s sure to warm your heart and tummy.
I love how this dish comes together quickly—perfect for busy nights. Just cook the sausage, make the sauce, and toss it all with pasta. Easy-peasy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or tagliatelle works great for this recipe. If you don’t have either, feel free to use spaghetti or even penne. They’ll still carry that creamy sauce beautifully!
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage is a great substitute. You can also use diced cooked chicken if that’s what you have!
Cream: While heavy cream gives the best texture, you can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce. Just be careful not to let it boil vigorously, or it will curdle.
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for its flavor and meltability. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan can work too. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as well.
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth, creamy Alfredo sauce is the heat and whisking! Start over medium-low heat to avoid scorching your cream. Here’s how to nail it:
- Once you’ve sautéed the garlic, add the butter and let it melt slowly.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Bring it to a gentle simmer; don’t let it boil.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese. This method helps prevent clumps and keeps the texture silky.
- If the sauce gets too thick, slowly whisk in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Taking your time here makes all the difference for that creamy, delicious finish!
Creamy Sausage Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta (or tagliatelle)
For the Sauce:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh sage leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Sausage Alfredo takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll cook the pasta, brown the sausage, and whip up that delicious creamy sauce all in one go. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes. When it’s done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, if there’s not enough fat from the sausage, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter, heavy cream, and whole milk to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Enjoy the delicious smells wafting through your kitchen!
5. Add the Cheese:
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and has thickened—this should take about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Season the Alfredo Sauce:
Season your delicious Alfredo sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—taste as you go!
7. Combine with Pasta and Sausage:
Add the cooked sausage back into the pan, then fold in the drained pasta, tossing everything well so the noodles are fully coated with that creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your Creamy Sausage Alfredo immediately. Garnish with fresh sage leaves, extra Parmesan cheese, and some chopped parsley if you like. It will look as good as it tastes!
9. Enjoy!
Dive into this rich and cheesy meal, and enjoy every bite of your Creamy Sausage Alfredo!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and tagliatelle are traditional choices, any pasta shape you like will work. Consider using penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti—just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Sausage?
Yes, chicken makes a great alternative! You can use cooked and shredded chicken or diced chicken breast. Just sauté it until fully cooked and season it well to replicate the flavor of the sausage.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture, and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies. You can also use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives to keep it creamy and delicious!