Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 diced onion
- 1-1.5 lbs smoked sausage (such as Johnsonville kielbasa)
- Garlic (to taste)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Italian seasoning (to taste)
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 12-16 oz pasta (your favorite shape)
- 2.5 cups shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or pepperjack)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced smoked sausage to the pan. Cook until the onion softens and the sausage browns slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, fire roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine.
- Cover the skillet and simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your creamy smoked sausage pasta! It’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Here are some tips to make your Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta even more delicious:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality smoked sausage and cheese to enhance the flavor of the dish. Fresh garlic and herbs will also elevate the taste.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning levels according to your preference. You can add more Italian seasoning for extra flavor or adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste buds.
- Customize Cheese Blend: Experiment with different combinations of cheese to find your favorite flavor profile. Pepperjack will add a spicy kick, while mozzarella and cheddar provide a classic cheesy taste.
- Control Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or simmer the dish uncovered for the last few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be mindful not to overcook the pasta. It’s best to cook it al dente (firm to the bite) as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion and sausage.
- Garnish Creatively: Besides parsley, you can garnish the dish with chopped fresh basil, green onions, or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Make it Ahead: This dish reheats well, so feel free to make it ahead of time for easy weekday dinners or lunches. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Enjoy cooking and savoring your creamy smoked sausage pasta
FAQs – Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Q: Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While the recipe suggests smoked sausage like kielbasa, you can experiment with other types of sausage such as Andouille or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of Italian seasoning? A: Yes, you can substitute Italian seasoning with a combination of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Certainly! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for this recipe. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini would all work well.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Keep in mind that the pasta may continue to absorb some of the sauce, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to maintain the desired consistency.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier? A: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the other seasonings. Additionally, using pepperjack cheese or adding a dash of hot sauce can increase the heat level.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: While you can freeze leftovers, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. It’s best to store the pasta portion without garnishes in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Enjoy making and customizing your creamy smoked sausage pasta! If you have any further questions, feel free to ask
