Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with smoky sausage, a creamy sauce, and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 pound smoked sausage (sliced, such as kielbasa or andouille)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced; any color)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned.
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
2. Incorporate Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	20g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or mozzarella, for varied flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. With its creamy sauce and smoky sausage, it’s sure to become a family favorite!