Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sausage Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a creamy Alfredo sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. The addition of sausage adds a savory, juicy element to the dish, making it a satisfying one-pot meal. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can easily whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. It's a perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (either mild or spicy)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 8 ounces fettuccine or your choice of pasta

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Prepare the sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes.

4. Finish the sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and cook the sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and sausage mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

6. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use mushrooms or other vegetables like spinach for a delicious vegetarian variation.

• Pasta Variations: While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo, you can use other pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

• Cheese Variations: Try adding mozzarella or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Sausage Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, adding a bit of cream to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

How do I make the Alfredo sauce thicker?

To thicken the Alfredo sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also add more Parmesan cheese, which will help the sauce thicken as it melts.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.

What pasta is best for Alfredo?

Fettuccine is the classic pasta choice for Alfredo, but you can also use other pastas such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sausage and sauce ahead of time and then combine with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Sausage Alfredo Pasta?

Freezing is not ideal for this dish as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. However, if you need to freeze leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 1 month, and make sure to stir well when reheating.

How do I make my Alfredo sauce more creamy?

For an extra creamy Alfredo, you can add more heavy cream or include a little bit of cream cheese to the sauce. The additional fat will make the sauce richer and smoother.

Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?

While you can use lower-fat cream, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of full heavy cream.

What can I serve with Sausage Alfredo Pasta?

This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! For a spicy twist, use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I make the sauce without Parmesan?

Parmesan is key to the classic flavor of Alfredo, but if you need a substitute, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar effect.

Conclusion

Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. With its creamy sauce, savory sausage, and tender pasta, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Quick to prepare, easy to modify, and absolutely delicious, it's the kind of dish everyone will love!

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