If you’re hunting for a truly irresistible pasta dinner, Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Imagine smoky sausage sizzled in golden butter and caramelized garlic, all brought together with a silken Parmesan cream sauce that wraps every bite in savory decadence. This recipe is ridiculously easy yet dinner party-worthy, making it perfect for busy evenings or special moments alike. One forkful, and you’ll understand why this pasta dish deserves a permanent spot on your dinner table!

Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of classic ingredients that work in perfect harmony to deliver big flavor and comfort. Each one has a part to play, whether it’s adding richness, boldness, or a pop of color to your finished Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.

Pasta (12 oz, penne or fettuccine): Sturdy shapes like penne or fettuccine hold the creamy sauce beautifully and make every bite satisfyingly hearty.
Smoked sausage (1 lb, sliced into rounds): The smokiness of your favorite sausage infuses the sauce with deep, savory notes.
Unsalted butter (3 tbsp, divided): Butter forms the foundation of the rich, velvety sauce and gives the sausage extra flavor when browning.
Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): Essential for that signature garlicky kick—don’t be shy!
Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to a luscious, dreamy sauce you’ll want to scoop up with bread.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds depth and keeps the sauce light enough that it doesn’t feel too heavy.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Grate your own for the creamiest texture and richest flavor—it’s worth it.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Brings a medley of herbs to the mix, tying together all those comforting flavors.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Just enough to balance and elevate all the other ingredients.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A little sprinkle at the end brings a welcome burst of color and freshness.

How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until just al dente according to package instructions—pasta that’s too soft won’t hold up as well to the sauce. Once it’s ready, drain but make sure to save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water; it’s your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on. Set the pasta aside while you get to work on everything else.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the sliced smoked sausage in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for a couple minutes to get that irresistible caramelization, then flip and brown the other side. This not only develops big flavor but also creates those delicious little crispy edges everyone loves. Once the sausage is browned, transfer it to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want those browned bits!), add your remaining two tablespoons of butter. When melted, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook just for about a minute, stirring frequently, until it smells amazing and turns fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the base of the sauce with all that sweet, savory garlic goodness.

Step 4: Simmer the Creamy Sauce

With the garlic softened and shimmering in butter, slowly whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Lower the heat to medium-low and let everything simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to mellow and blend while the sauce thickens slightly, setting the stage for all that glorious Parmesan.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Combine

Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a silky, smooth sauce. Toss in the browned sausage and cooked pasta, stirring everything gently to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, pour in a little of your reserved pasta water until you reach your ideal creaminess. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—you’re in the home stretch!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is coated in that dreamy sauce, transfer the Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta to serving bowls. Top each one with a generous pinch of fresh chopped parsley to brighten the whole dish and add a restaurant-worthy finish. Serve hot, and get ready for rave reviews around the table.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

While fresh parsley is a classic choice for this pasta, don’t stop there! Try a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan for even more cheesy richness, or add a light dusting of cracked black pepper and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. If you’re a heat-seeker, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the garnish brings the perfect spicy kick.

Side Dishes

This hearty Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a star all on its own, but sides can definitely round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a zippy vinaigrette helps balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are ideal for scooping up every last bit of sauce. If you want to add some greens, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus make a lovely, vibrant pairing on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try serving the pasta in a large family-style bowl, topped with an extra sprinkle of parsley and Parmesan for a showstopping centerpiece. For a fun twist, make individual portions in shallow bowls and top each with a few reserved slices of browned sausage and a sprinkle of lemon zest. You can even serve the pasta inside hollowed-out roasted peppers or tomatoes for a colorful, playful presentation that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate as soon as it cools. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for satisfying weekday lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze this pasta, though be aware that creamy sauces may separate slightly when thawed. Spoon cooled portions into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk, cream, or water to help loosen the sauce back up to a silky consistency. Stir frequently and heat just until warmed through—this helps keep the sausage tender and the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds wonderful depth, you can use any kind of precooked sausage you enjoy—think andouille, kielbasa, or even a lighter turkey sausage. Just make sure to slice and brown it well for the best flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

If you’d like to cut down on richness, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for smoked turkey sausage. You’ll still get plenty of creamy texture and satisfying protein, but with a lighter feel.

Can I make Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sauce and sausage a day in advance. When you’re ready to serve, cook and drain the pasta, then rewarm the sauce and combine everything in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water just before serving for the silkiest finish.

What’s the secret for a smooth, non-grainy Parmesan sauce?

Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and add it gradually to the warm (but not boiling) sauce. Stir continuously so it melts evenly and integrates with the cream, preventing clumps or graininess.

How can I spice up the flavor?

If you want a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne when sautéing the garlic. You can also toss in sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed bell peppers, or baby spinach for extra layers of flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about sitting down to a bowl of Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta—it’s comforting, packed with rich flavors, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding family on a busy night or treating yourself to something cozy, this dish delivers on every level. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll be making regular appearances in your dinner rotation!

Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 3 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a delightful meal with this savory Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe. A comforting dish that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese and the robust flavor of smoked sausage, all brought together in a luscious creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz pasta such as penne or fettuccine

Sausage:

1 lb smoked sausage sliced into rounds

Garlic Butter Sauce:

3 tbsp unsalted butter divided
4 cloves garlic minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish:

Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, and set aside.
Sear the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter and cook sausage for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter and add garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Finish the Dish: Whisk in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth. Return sausage and pasta to skillet, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley before serving.