Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines savory sausage bites with creamy pasta, and this recipe for Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta does just that. When I first made this for my family, the response was nothing short of ecstatic. The rich flavors of garlic and butter coating the sausage meld perfectly with the luscious, cheesy pasta, making it a dinner everyone can enjoy. This hearty dish quickly became a weeknight favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:

• 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:

1. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the garlic butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Return the sausage to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter until well coated. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

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.
2. Make the creamy sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine:

1. Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until fully coated.
2. Assemble the dish: Serve the garlic butter sausage bites over the creamy Parmesan pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while hot.
• Garnish with:
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley
• A sprinkle of black pepper
• Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Add Depth: For extra richness, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the skillet while cooking the sausage.
2. Choose Your Pasta: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta like rigatoni or bowtie for a fun twist.
3. Veggie Boost: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
4. Protein Swap: Substitute the sausage with chicken or shrimp for a lighter version.
5. Make It Ahead: Prepare the sausage bites and pasta sauce ahead of time, then combine them when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with grilled vegetables or plant-based sausage.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the sauce for a refreshing brightness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette.
• Bread Pairing: Enjoy with warm garlic bread or crusty French baguette.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sausage bites and pasta separately. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

• Absolutely! Feel free to use any sausage you prefer, including chicken sausage or plant-based options.

1. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

• Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta available in most grocery stores.

1. How can I make the dish lighter?

• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream alternative and use turkey sausage.

1. Can I make this dish in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them when ready to serve.

1. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

• You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

1. Can I add vegetables?

• Definitely! Add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

1. How spicy is the dish?

• The spice level is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes for more heat.

1. What kind of pasta works best?

• Fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you love will work well in this recipe.

1. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

• Ensure to cook the pasta al dente and toss it immediately in the sauce.

1. Can I double the recipe?
   • Yes! Simply double the ingredients and ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate everything.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it has quickly become a favorite in my home. The combination of garlic butter and creamy cheese pasta creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and treat your family to this delicious meal tonight—you won’t regret it!

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