Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Craving a dish that’s packed with flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of indulgence? Look no further than Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! Imagine tender sausage bites swimming in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with a creamy, cheesy pasta that will make you want to dive right in. It’s one of those meals that’s deceptively simple to make but feels like a restaurant-quality dish in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to win everyone over. Trust me, the combination of the sausage and pasta is a match made in heaven!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This recipe isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about savoring each bite and enjoying a comforting, flavorful meal. Here’s why this dish is a keeper:

Flavor-packed:

The garlic butter sauce elevates the sausage bites to a whole new level, and when combined with the creamy Parmesan pasta, it creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Simple Ingredients:

You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients to make this dish. With a few key items—sausage, butter, garlic, and pasta—you’re set for a mouthwatering meal that won’t break the bank.

Comfort Food:

This dish is pure comfort food with its rich, creamy sauce, juicy sausage, and tender pasta. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you need something that’ll make you feel like you’re being pampered.

Quick and Easy:

It’s simple to make, with minimal prep required. This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, so it’s great for when you’re craving something hearty but don’t have all night to cook.

Versatile:

You can easily swap out the sausage for chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based alternative if you want to mix things up. You can also add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

For the Sausage Bites:

• Italian Sausage: The star of the show! Use your favorite Italian sausage (either sweet or spicy) to bring bold flavors to the dish.
• Butter: For that deliciously rich and creamy garlic butter sauce that coats the sausage and pasta perfectly.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings that fragrant, savory kick that makes this dish so irresistible.
• Olive Oil: Helps with sautéing the sausage bites to golden perfection without sticking.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A little heat to balance out the richness of the butter and garlic (optional, if you like a bit of spice).
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• Pasta: Any type of pasta will work for this dish, but something like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti works especially well.
• Heavy Cream: Adds the luscious creaminess to the sauce, making it rich and dreamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth adds depth and helps create a silky, smooth sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the pasta and sauce.
• Garlic Powder: A little extra garlic flavor to enhance the richness of the cream sauce.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make these Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water, and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage Bites

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and cook the sausage, breaking it up into bite-sized pieces as it browns. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is fully cooked and browned on all sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—this is where the magic happens! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat if you like, then pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the broth reduces slightly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sausage

Add the cooked pasta and sausage back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 650
Total Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 20%
Vitamin C: 15%
Calcium: 25%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This dish is so delicious and filling on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides:

With a Simple Salad:

Pair it with a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the creamy pasta.

With Garlic Bread:

A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up all that extra sauce. You can’t go wrong with carbs on carbs!

With Roasted Vegetables:

Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus would be a great addition to this meal. The crispy, roasted veggies provide a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

With a Glass of White Wine:

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy flavors of this dish.

Additional Tips

Make It Spicy:

If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.

Swap the Sausage:

If you prefer a different protein, you can swap out the sausage for chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based sausage alternative.

Use Fresh Parmesan:

For the best creamy sauce, be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Leftovers:

This dish makes great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, adding a little cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Double the Recipe:

This recipe is so delicious, you may want to make extra. It’s easy to double the ingredients if you’re cooking for a crowd or want to have leftovers for the week.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A1: Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can cook the sausage and make the sauce ahead of time. Just store everything separately and reheat when ready to serve. Add the pasta and toss everything together before serving.

Q3: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A3: Yes! Just swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go.

Q4: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A4: You can use half-and-half or a lighter cream, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute.

Q5: How can I make this dish spicier?
A5: You can add more red pepper flakes, or toss in a chopped fresh chili pepper while cooking the sausage. For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Q6: Can I freeze this recipe?
A6: You can freeze the sausage and sauce separately for up to 2-3 months. Reheat on the stovetop and add fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q7: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A7: Absolutely! You can sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the sausage for added veggies and flavor.

Q8: What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
A8: Any type of pasta will work, but I recommend penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine for the best texture with the creamy sauce.

Q9: Can I make this dish with chicken instead of sausage?
A9: Yes, you can use diced chicken breasts or thighs in place of sausage. Just be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

Q10: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
A10: While it’s best to use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce, pre-grated cheese will work in a pinch. Just be aware that it may not melt as seamlessly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. With its bold flavors, creamy sauce, and satisfying textures, it’s a complete meal that’s simple yet impressive. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself after a long day or impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe has got you covered. Try it tonight and enjoy the deliciousness!

Print