This creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl. It features tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with delicious sausage for that extra flavor kick!
Making this dish is so easy; I just cook the pasta, sauté the sausage, and mix it all together. It’s perfect for dinner when I want something cozy and tasty! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is great for this dish, but you can swap it with penne, fusilli, or fettuccine based on what you have. Just make sure it’s a pasta shape that holds sauce well.
Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its flavor, but feel free to use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used, but the richness will be less.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for a smooth sauce, but you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as a substitute. Pre-grated cheese works too, but the sauce may not be as creamy.
How Do I Make the Sauce Extra Creamy?
To achieve that creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce, the key steps involve careful cooking. After sautéing the garlic, add the cream and milk slowly. Keep stirring to combine well and prevent lumps.
- Simmer the sauce gently. If it bubbles too hard, it may separate.
- Whisk in the cheese gradually; this helps it melt evenly without clumping.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning. A pinch of salt and pepper can bring the flavors to life!
- If your sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sausage:
- 12 oz (340g) farfalle pasta (bowtie pasta)
- 12 oz (340g) sausage links (Italian or your favorite kind), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning or dried basil (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sausage Alfredo Pasta takes about 30 minutes total—around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk while stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Combine Everything:
Season your Alfredo sauce with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning or basil if you’re using it. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir well to coat it in the sauce. Then add the cooked pasta and toss gently so everything combines nicely.
6. Serve:
Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes to warm through. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for that lovely touch!
Enjoy your comforting and tasty Sausage Alfredo Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for raw meats.
Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
Yes! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and low-fat milk instead of whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream if the sauce has thickened.
What Can I Serve With Sausage Alfredo Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a burst of color and nutrients!