This creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a comforting dish that mixes juicy sausage with a rich, velvety sauce. It’s all tossed with your favorite pasta for a delicious meal!
If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for an easy yet tasty dinner idea. This dish comes together quickly, so you can enjoy it without spending hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using bowtie pasta for its fun shape. However, you can easily swap it for fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.
Italian Sausage: You can pick mild or spicy sausage based on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage also works well. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes for a rich sauce, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut cream can give you a nice consistency, but will alter the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, pre-grated cheese is fine. Nutritional yeast is a great substitute for a dairy-free option, offering a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get My Alfredo Sauce Creamy and Rich?
The key to a creamy Alfredo sauce lies in how you mix your ingredients. Start with the right heat and timing. Here’s some friendly advice:
- Heat the butter and garlic over medium heat and avoid browning them to keep that fresh garlic flavor.
- When adding heavy cream, let it simmer gently. This helps it thicken nicely without boiling, which could cause it to separate.
- Stir in the Parmesan slowly to avoid clumps. Add a bit more cream or pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
- Mix everything together neatly for an even coating on your pasta. A pasta spoon or tongs work wonders!
Following these tips will help you achieve that creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (bowtie, farfalle, or your choice)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Sausage Alfredo Pasta will take approximately 30-35 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then about 20-25 minutes cooking everything together. In no time, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve!
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 according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant (but not burnt!). Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce starts to thicken a bit.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, leaving you with a deliciously creamy texture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste for that extra flavor.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Then, add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the rich Alfredo sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta immediately and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie or farfalle pasta is great, you can substitute it with fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may differ slightly.
Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
Yes! To lighten it up, you can use whole wheat pasta or reduce the amount of heavy cream by substituting in half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Using turkey or chicken sausage is also a great way to cut down on calories and fat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce is too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition. Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would work well. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream for a colorful and tasty addition!
