This creamy pasta dish combines gooey mozzarella and tasty smoked sausage for a meal that’s both rich and comforting. Perfect for dinner when you want something warm and filling!
You’ll love how quick this comes together. Just cook the pasta, mix in the sausage and cheese, and you’ve got a winning dinner. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for penne or rigatoni since they hold the sauce well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using rice or corn pasta, which works just as well!
Smoked Sausage: Any smoked sausage will enhance the dish’s flavor. Turkey sausage is a great lighter alternative. If you’re vegetarian, try using a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add some extra veggies.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. If you prefer a dairy-free version, coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk can be good substitutes, but they might alter the taste slightly.
Cheeses: Fresh mozzarella adds a nice creaminess. If unavailable, shredded mozzarella works too. Parmesan can be swapped with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting that rich, creamy sauce is all about timing and heat control. When adding the cream and broth, do it on low heat to avoid curdling. Here’s how to do it right:
- After you add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stir thoroughly and let it simmer gently.
- Keep stirring to help the mixture thicken, which creates that luscious texture.
- Be patient as you add your cheeses; this will help them melt smoothly into the sauce.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta!
Creamy Mozzarella Pasta with Savory Smoked Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
- 12 oz (340g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella, diced or torn into small pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 25 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that will please the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Start the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Add Cream and Broth:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly—this is your creamy base!
5. Melt the Cheeses:
Reduce the heat to low. Now, it’s time to add the diced fresh mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir frequently until the cheeses melt completely and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Mix in the Sausage:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well with the creamy sauce. If you’d like a little kick, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Season everything with salt and black pepper to your liking.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. You want every bite to be full of flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Enjoy your deliciously creamy, cheesy pasta dish with the delightful savory flavor of smoked sausage!
FAQ for Creamy Mozzarella Pasta with Savory Smoked Sausage
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream works well, although the flavor will change slightly.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the pasta to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the creaminess.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some diced fresh chili peppers to the pan when you sauté the onions and garlic. For an extra kick, consider a dash of hot sauce when serving!
