There are meals that nourish not just our bodies, but our souls. Growing up, the kitchen was the heart of our home, filled with laughter, stories, and the tantalizing aroma of good food. One of the most memorable dishes from those cherished times was my mother’s garlic butter sausage bites. They had a way of making everyone feel welcome, no matter how hectic the day had been. As a child, I remember running home from school, eager to catch a whiff of that unmistakable garlic fragrance wafting through the air.
Today, I’m excited to share my own twist on this nostalgic favorite, pairing the savory sausage bites with creamy parmesan pasta. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, and it’s sure to create new memories around the dinner table. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by boiling water. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt enhances the pasta’s flavor, so don’t skip this step. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice. Fettuccine and penne both work beautifully in this dish, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. When finished, drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water to use later if needed. This starchy water can help thicken or loosen your sauce.
Step 2: While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to coat it evenly. The key to achieving that deep, rich flavor in your sausage bites is to get the butter just hot enough before adding the garlic. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. You want the garlic to become fragrant and lightly golden, but not browned, as burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s overall taste.
Step 3: Now it’s time to add the sausage. Place the sliced smoked sausage in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and heated through. The edges will get that delightful crispness that adds texture to the dish. As the sausage cooks, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. The seasoning will blend beautifully with the garlic and butter, enhancing the overall flavor of the sausage.
Step 4: Once your sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. As the cream warms, add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help to achieve the perfect consistency while maintaining a rich flavor.
Step 5: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy sausage mixture until everything is well coated. This is where the magic happens! As the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce, it becomes a delightful companion to the garlic butter sausage bites. Once everything is combined, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, serve hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
Variations
One of the best aspects of cooking is the ability to personalize recipes to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations you might consider:
- For a Healthier Option: Swap the smoked sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to lower the fat content. Additionally, you can use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegan Variation: For a plant-based twist, use vegan sausage options available at most grocery stores. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, creamy texture. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
- Extra Veggies: Add some sautéed vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms all make great additions. Simply toss them in with the sausage and garlic, allowing them to soften before adding the cream.
Cooking Notes
- Choosing the Right Sausage: The type of sausage you use will greatly affect the flavor of the dish. Smoked sausages like kielbasa impart a wonderful smoky flavor, while andouille offers a touch of heat. Choose your favorite or experiment with different varieties!
- Avoiding Burnt Garlic: Garlic can go from fragrant to burnt in seconds, so keep a close eye on it. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too much, reduce the heat immediately.
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: When cooking your pasta, don’t forget to taste it a minute or two before the package’s recommended cooking time to ensure it’s cooked just right.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can stand alone, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Side Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sausage and pasta. Consider a mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a fresh taste.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for the ultimate comfort food experience. The bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce!
- Beverage Pairing: For beverages, consider serving a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the dish beautifully.
Tips
- Ingredient Storage: If you have leftovers, store the sausage and pasta mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick.
- Meal Prep Idea: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the sausage and sauce ahead of time, and then simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
- Freezing Tips: While freezing this dish is possible, the creamy sauce may not retain its original texture once thawed. If you decide to freeze it, consider freezing the sausage and pasta separately from the sauce to maintain quality.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini, farfalle, or even whole grain pasta.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: If you enjoy heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sausage while cooking for an added kick.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the sausage and sauce ahead of time, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
Smoked Sausage: Smoked sausage is a wonderful ingredient that adds depth and flavor to any dish. Its hearty texture and rich taste make it a favorite for many recipes, from casseroles to pastas. Sausage can be made from various meats, including pork, beef, and turkey, and comes in numerous flavors, often enhanced with spices and herbs. This makes it incredibly versatile and an excellent choice for busy weeknight meals.
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings people together. Each bite is a reminder of home, of warmth, and of the love shared around the dinner table. I invite you to try this recipe and create your own memories with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with us! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, explore the rest of our site there’s something for everyone.
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Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by boiling water. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt enhances the pasta’s flavor, so don’t skip this step. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice. Fettuccine and penne both work beautifully in this dish, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. When finished, drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water to use later if needed. This starchy water can help thicken or loosen your sauce.
Step 2: While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to coat it evenly. The key to achieving that deep, rich flavor in your sausage bites is to get the butter just hot enough before adding the garlic. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. You want the garlic to become fragrant and lightly golden, but not browned, as burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s overall taste.
Step 3: Now it’s time to add the sausage. Place the sliced smoked sausage in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and heated through. The edges will get that delightful crispness that adds texture to the dish. As the sausage cooks, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. The seasoning will blend beautifully with the garlic and butter, enhancing the overall flavor of the sausage.
Step 4: Once your sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. As the cream warms, add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help to achieve the perfect consistency while maintaining a rich flavor.
Step 5: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy sausage mixture until everything is well coated. This is where the magic happens! As the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce, it becomes a delightful companion to the garlic butter sausage bites. Once everything is combined, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, serve hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Sausage: The type of sausage you use will greatly affect the flavor of the dish. Smoked sausages like kielbasa impart a wonderful smoky flavor, while andouille offers a touch of heat. Choose your favorite or experiment with different varieties!
- Avoiding Burnt Garlic: Garlic can go from fragrant to burnt in seconds, so keep a close eye on it. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too much, reduce the heat immediately.
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: When cooking your pasta, don’t forget to taste it a minute or two before the package’s recommended cooking time to ensure it’s cooked just right.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 800
- Protein: 25