Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make pasta dish that’s packed with rich flavors? This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect comfort meal! It combines golden-browned sausage, a luscious garlic butter sauce, and a creamy Parmesan finish for an indulgent yet simple dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes and is guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich & Creamy – The garlic butter and Parmesan sauce create a luxurious texture.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
✅ Versatile – Swap the sausage for shrimp, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
✅ Family-Friendly – A satisfying dish that both kids and adults will love!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb turkey or chicken sausage links, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
2️⃣ Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausage slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4️⃣ Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Combine Everything
- Return the sausage and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
- Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions & Variations
🍝 Make It Spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.
🥦 Boost the Veggies – Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.
🥓 Add Some Bacon – Crispy bacon bits will take this dish to another level!
💡 Lighter Version – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Storage & Reheating Tips
🛑 Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
🚫 Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as creamy sauces don’t freeze well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! Chicken, pork, or plant-based sausages work great in this recipe.
What pasta shapes work best?
Penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or rotini hold the sauce well and provide great texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the butter for olive oil, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta recipe is sure to satisfy!
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