Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner made with kielbasa, pasta, heavy cream, tomato sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
Ah, the “Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta” – a dish that’s not just a meal but a trip down memory lane. Picture this: It’s a Tuesday night, and I’m frantically searching through the fridge for something quick and delicious. The usual suspects are there: a pack of kielbasa that I always keep for emergencies, some leftover cream from Sunday’s dessert, and the ubiquitous box of pasta. In a moment of culinary serendipity, I decided to throw them all together, and voilà, a family favorite was born. This recipe has since become a weeknight staple, perfect for those chaotic evenings when you need something comforting and speedy. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that first hurried yet magical creation. It’s not just food; it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things come from a little bit of kitchen chaos and a lot of love.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Minimal Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry and fridge staples, making it convenient without a grocery run.
- Comfort Food: The creamy, savory sauce combined with hearty kielbasa and pasta makes it a comfort food classic.
- Versatile: Can be easily adapted with different types of pasta or sausage.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Notes For This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
When it comes to whipping up a delicious and satisfying meal, the “Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta” has you covered with simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what makes each component shine:
- Kielbasa: This smoked sausage adds a savory depth and a hint of smokiness that elevates the entire dish.
- Pasta: Use your favorite type, whether it’s penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Each shape brings a different texture to the dish.
- Butter: Provides a rich base for the sauce, adding a subtle creamy flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant and slightly spicy kick to the sauce.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: The key to the sauce’s luxurious creaminess. It balances the tanginess of the tomato sauce perfectly.
- Tomato Sauce and Paste: These bring a rich, robust tomato flavor that complements the cream and sausage.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Italian Seasoning and Garlic Powder: These spices bring a burst of flavor, making the sauce aromatic and well-seasoned.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Dried Parsley: A sprinkle on top adds a touch of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness.
How To Make This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Creating this “Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta” is as easy as pie—well, actually, it’s easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time:
1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember, it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the sauce later.
2. Brown the Kielbasa: While the pasta is cooking, slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the kielbasa. Cook until the pieces are browned and slightly crispy, then remove them from the pan and set them aside. The browning process adds a delightful caramelized flavor to the sausage.
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3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
4. Combine and Serve: Once the sauce has reached a nice, thick consistency, add the drained pasta to the pan. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Return the browned kielbasa to the pan and mix until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of dried parsley for a touch of freshness.
Storage Options
This “Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta” is not just easy to make; it’s also great for meal prep. Here’s how you can store it:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring back its creamy consistency.
- Freezer: If you want to save some for a rainy day, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to mix things up:
- Different Sausages: Try substituting the kielbasa with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different cheesy kick.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
With these variations and substitutions, you can customize this dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a truly versatile recipe.
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz package of kielbasa
- 16 oz box of pasta
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of minced garlic
- 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
- 2 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Dried parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the directions on the package until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Brown the Kielbasa:
- Slice the kielbasa into rounds. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the kielbasa. Cook until browned on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the pan and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add the butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Incorporate the shredded Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce has slightly thickened, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure each piece is well-coated. Return the browned kielbasa to the pan and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve:
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of dried parsley.
