Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly indulgent, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender rotini pasta wrapped in a luscious, garlicky cheese sauce, studded with smoky, browned sausage slices, and brightened by bursts of diced tomatoes. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that hits the spot for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive yet simple meal for guests. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic in my kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe shines because of its straightforward yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each element contributes something vital—whether it’s the pasta’s bite, the sausage’s smoky richness, or the creamy sauce’s silky depth—making the dish simultaneously simple and spectacular.

• 16 oz rotini pasta: Its spiral shape traps sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced: Adds a smoky, meaty punch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and enhances every flavor.
• 2 tablespoons flour: Essential for thickening the sauce into a smooth, creamy consistency.
• 4 to 7 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant, savory warmth.
• 3 cups half and half: Provides a lovely creaminess without being too heavy.
• 1 cup chicken stock: Adds depth and a subtle savory note to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors and seasons the sauce perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle hint of heat and brightness.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: Offers subtle herbal undertones that brighten the profile.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice): Melts into creamy goodness with a sharp, tangy bite.
• 15 oz diced tomatoes, drained: Adds a pop of color and fresh acidity to cut through the richness.
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: The perfect finishing touch for a nutty, savory flavor boost.

How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

This first step sets the foundation. Cooking your rotini pasta until just tender ensures you get that perfect bite—soft but with a little chew. Once cooked, drain and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up the luscious sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage

Heating the sausage slices in a skillet over medium heat until browned is critical for unlocking their smoky flavor and a slightly crispy texture. This adds a beautiful contrast to the creamy sauce and keeps the sausage from being too soft.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

By melting butter and then infusing it with minced garlic, you develop a warm, fragrant base for the sauce. The aroma here is irresistible, and it signals that something delicious is coming together.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkling in flour and stirring constantly creates a roux that will thicken your sauce to creamy perfection. Cooking it for a minute or two helps remove any raw flour taste and lays down a silky texture foundation.

Step 5: Whisk in Half and Half and Chicken Stock

Slowly adding half and half and chicken stock while whisking prevents lumps and combines these liquids into a smooth, velvety sauce. The chicken stock adds subtle complexity, preventing the sauce from feeling too heavy.

Step 6: Season and Simmer Until Thickened

Add salt, pepper, and oregano now to build flavor layers. A gentle simmer for about 5 minutes lets the sauce thicken just enough to coat the pasta without becoming too dense.

Step 7: Stir in Cheese and Tomatoes

Mixing in shredded cheddar and drained diced tomatoes introduces color, sharp creaminess, and a refreshing acidity. This step creates the hallmark creaminess of the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe.

Step 8: Combine Sausage and Pasta with Sauce

Returning browned sausage and cooked pasta to the skillet lets them mingle evenly with the sauce. Toss everything gently until every piece is coated, warm, and irresistible.

Step 9: Finish with Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkling Parmesan on top right before serving adds a lovely salty, nutty layer. It’s the crowning glory that makes this dish unbelievably comforting and satisfying.

How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil provides a bright, herbal contrast to the rich pasta. You can also add a few chili flakes for a subtle kick or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Roasted vegetables or warm garlic bread are also amazing accompaniments to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in individual bowls topped with a Parmesan crisp or place it in a large, rustic casserole dish straight from the skillet for a communal family-style presentation. Adding a lemon wedge on the side can brighten each bite if desired.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish again without any loss in flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe, but keep in mind that pasta can change texture slightly after thawing. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken stock to rejuvenate the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for trapping sauce, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle would work beautifully in this recipe.

What if I don’t have half and half?

You can substitute with a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream to achieve a similar creamy texture, or use just heavy cream for an even richer sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the smoked sausage for plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms to maintain a meaty texture without the meat.

How spicy is this pasta?

The recipe itself is mild, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to give it an extra kick.

Can I prepare this in advance?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and sausage ahead, then cook the pasta just before combining for optimal texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is one of those gems that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its simple ingredients combine to deliver a meal that’s anything but ordinary. From the creamy, cheesy sauce to the smoky sausage and vibrant tomatoes, every forkful invites you to savor comfort and joy. Don’t wait to make this recipe your next dinner—your taste buds will thank you!

Print