When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes can rival the combination of crispy, garlicky sausage bites paired with rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy Parmesan sauce complements the garlicky, buttery sausage bites for a perfect flavor pairing.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just half an hour, it’s ideal for busy nights.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite sausage or add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra variety.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb sausage links (Italian, smoked, or chicken)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Bites
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Slice the sausage links into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet.
- Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked sausage bites in the garlic butter mixture and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Divide the pasta into bowls and top with garlic butter sausage bites.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately!
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Sausage: Use hot Italian for spice or chicken for milder flavor.
- Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own for smoother sauce.
- Don’t Skip Garlic Butter: It adds extra richness.
- Add Veggies: Include spinach or mushrooms for balance.
- Reheat with Care: Add milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep in fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on stovetop with a splash of cream.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners or date nights, it’s irresistibly delicious. Try it tonight!
