This creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a real treat! With tasty sausage mixed into a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s comfort food in a bowl. Easy to make, too!
I can’t resist sneaking a few extra bites when it’s hot off the stove. It pairs perfectly with a side salad—trust me, you’ll love it! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used campanelle for its lovely shape that holds the sauce well. But don’t hesitate to use rigatoni, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed!
Italian Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken or turkey sausage works just as well.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re trying to cut down on calories, you can replace it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, but the richness might change a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pecorino Romano can be a great substitute, or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different twist.
How Can I Make the Cream Sauce Without Curdling?
To create a smooth Alfredo sauce, it’s important to control the heat. Here are some tips to prevent curdling:
- Keep the heat low to medium-low when adding the heavy cream and milk.
- Stir continuously when incorporating the Parmesan cheese to ensure it melts evenly.
- Always add cheese gradually. This helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
- If your sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add the reserved pasta water slowly until it reaches your desired consistency.
Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 ounces pasta (such as campanelle or rigatoni)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and 20 minutes to cook the dish, making it a quick and delightful meal to enjoy any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it, but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later—this will help with the sauce consistency. Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it starts to smell amazing. Then, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter, heavy cream, and milk to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it heat gently—this will create your creamy base.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens up a bit. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and black pepper for that perfect flavor.
5. Combine Pasta and Sausage:
Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together well until the pasta and sausage are beautifully coated. If you find the sauce is too thick, just add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your liking.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Let the dish cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld those delicious flavors. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a yummy touch. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Sausage Alfredo Pasta hot!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you’re looking for vegetarian alternatives, consider using plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta! The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish without worry. Just make sure to double-check your sausage label.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you’re looking to enhance the flavor, try adding red pepper flakes for a kick, fresh spinach for some greenery, or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. These additions will complement the creamy sauce beautifully!
