Garlic Butter Sausage Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the kind of fast and comforting dinner that always disappears fast at my house The salty savory sausage pairs perfectly with silky parmesan cream sauce and twisty rotini noodles This is a weeknight favorite when we crave something a little indulgent but need it done in under an hour

I first made this when I needed a quick wow dinner for unexpected guests The combo of crispy sausage and luscious pasta won everyone over and now it is my go-to when comfort food cravings hit

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: look for high quality or locally made links for best flavor Bite sized pieces brown beautifully and absorb the sauce
• Butter: use real unsalted butter for richness both in toasting the sausage and for the sauce
• Fresh garlic: fresh cloves bring sharpness that lifts the entire dish Mince immediately before using for max aroma
• Olive oil: pick a tasty extra virgin for added richness
• Salt and pepper: season aggressively to bring out all the flavors
• Crushed red pepper flakes: these give gentle heat If you prefer mild use less or omit
• Rotini pasta: holds onto sauce in all the twists Choose a sturdy brand for best bite
• Heavy cream: brings silky texture and rounds out the cheese
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: select a true wedge of parmesan not pre-shredded It melts more smoothly and the flavor is unbeatable
• Garlic and onion powders: deepen aromatic layers and boost the creaminess
• Fresh parsley: sprinkle as garnish for color and a fresh herbal note

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Sausage:

Cut sausage into bite sized pieces Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet on medium high Place sausage in a single layer Let it brown deeply on all sides which takes about ten minutes Turn the pieces a few times but allow crispy edges to form

Add Garlic and Red Pepper:

Once sausage is browned scatter in all the minced garlic and the pinch of crushed red pepper flakes Season with salt and black pepper Stir gently and cook for one to two minutes until the garlic is just golden and the kitchen smells amazing Take sausage out and keep warm

Boil the Pasta:

While sausage cooks fill a medium pot with water and bring to a rolling boil Salt the water generously Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions stirring often for even texture Drain but reserve a small cup of pasta water for later

Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

In the same skillet you cooked sausage melt the remaining butter over medium heat Pour in heavy cream Add garlic powder and onion powder Whisk constantly as the cream heats through gradually melting in the parmesan cheese Keep stirring until the sauce thickens just enough to coat a spoon Add salt and pepper to taste

Combine and Finish:

Add the hot cooked pasta to the skillet with sauce Toss well to cover each noodle Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick Top with sausage bites or stir them through for more flavor Garnish the whole thing with a shower of chopped parsley and serve immediately

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I always look forward to using a fresh wedge of parmesan for this dish Once my youngest helped grate the cheese and started sneaking tasters right off the board That nutty sweet parmesan scent reminds me of that happy kitchen moment every time

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave If the sauce thickens too much just stir in a splash of milk or water to revive the creamy texture This pasta does not freeze well because the dairy may separate

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap rotini for penne fusilli or even spaghetti if you like For a lighter version use half and half instead of heavy cream and try chicken or turkey sausage If you must use pregrated parmesan look for one with no added fillers and grate a little more for best flavor

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Serving Suggestions

Offer with a crisp arugula salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon A chunk of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce My family loves this as a stand alone dinner but you can also serve it as part of a larger feast if unexpected company arrives

A Little History

This dish takes cues from classic Italian American comfort food The marriage of hearty sausage with garlicky cream sauce is a modern spin on traditional pasta with salsiccia dishes found throughout Southern Italy Using rotini helps the sauce cling to every bite making it pure comfort food for busy nights

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I ensure the sausage is fully cooked?

Cook the sausage bites until they are browned on all sides and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work nicely with the creamy sauce.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be a bit lighter and less rich.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and depth.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sausage and pasta separately, then combine and heat just before serving for best texture.