If there’s one dish that never fails to wow a crowd or comfort on a cozy night in, it’s Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta. This one-pan wonder checks all the boxes: savory smoked sausage, a velvety sauce, and perfectly tender pasta, all brought together with a hint of garlic and Italian herbs. Whether you’re rushing through a weeknight or inviting friends over for dinner, this recipe is every bit as easy as it is irresistible. Each bite bursts with flavor and just the right touch of smokiness, making it the kind of meal you’ll want to put on repeat!

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this dish shine is its handful of simple, everyday ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the rich cream to the smoky sausage, every component adds flavor, texture, or color, creating a balanced and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Smoked sausage: Sliced into 1/4-inch rounds, this brings deep, savory notes and a wonderful bite to the pasta.
Olive oil: Just a bit is needed to brown the sausage and start the flavor base for the sauce.
Onion: Diced small, onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a classic Italian flair.
Chicken broth: Adds savory richness and helps the pasta cook right in the pan, soaking up all the flavors.
Heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, creamy sauce that hugs every noodle.
Pasta (penne or rotini): Use your favorite short pasta for the perfect texture and sauce-catching shape.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for melt-in-your-mouth savoriness and a creamy finish.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds classic Mediterranean flavor.
Smoked paprika: This amps up the smokiness and gives the sauce a lovely, warm color.
Salt and black pepper: Adjust to taste to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle over the top for a bright, fresh finish.

How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Smoked Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add your sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until both sides are beautifully browned and crisped. This step really deepens the flavor, as those caramelized edges make the sausage extra irresistible. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside for a bit.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pan (don’t wipe it clean — those sausage bits are pure gold!), toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes, just until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, releasing its wonderful aroma without letting it burn.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce and Cook the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything into a rich, savory base. Add the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring now and then. The pasta absorbs all those flavors as it cooks, and the sauce thickens to creamy perfection.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Sausage

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, return the browned sausage to the pan. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and give everything a gentle stir. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and the sauce turns glossy and thick. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, shower the pasta with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Now, you’re ready to dig into a bowl of Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta that looks as good as it tastes!

How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference! Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, add a handful of chopped fresh parsley, or even a crack of freshly ground black pepper for a little kick. A drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This pasta is plenty hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce. For a veggie boost, try roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, serve the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta straight from the pan at the table. Hosting guests? Dish it into individual bowls and garnish each with parmesan curls and a sprig of parsley. For a fun twist, serve it in a hollowed-out bread bowl or alongside grilled vegetables for a vibrant platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day for lunch or dinner.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze the pasta, let it cool completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, as the creamy sauce may separate if reheated from frozen.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely and stirring halfway through. The added liquid helps restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While smoked sausage brings a classic flavor, turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter option. Even plant-based sausages can be a tasty swap if you want a vegetarian version.

What pasta shapes work best for Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta?

Penne and rotini are favorites because they hold onto the sauce so well, but any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle will work. Avoid long pastas like spaghetti, as they don’t soak up the creamy sauce quite the same.

Is there a way to make this dish even creamier?

For extra creaminess, try stirring in a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end, or add a splash of white wine with the broth for more depth and richness. Both will take your Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta to the next level!

Can I make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the whole dish ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat just before serving. Just remember to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to keep the sauce luscious and smooth.

What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your sausage and broth are gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’ll barely notice the switch!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta in your own kitchen! It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile, thanks to its bold flavors and comforting creaminess. Give it a go for a weeknight dinner or your next gathering — I promise, your taste buds will thank you!

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

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

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Description

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a delightful one-pan dish combining smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s packed with flavor and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Vegetables

12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid Base and Seasonings

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

Pasta and Cheese

8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the Smoked Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.
Combine Sausage and Cheese: Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce slightly thickens.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or add a splash of white wine during cooking.
Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter, lower-fat option.
If you prefer a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes along with other seasonings.
Ensure to stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American