If you’ve been craving a dish that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, this Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is here to deliver. Think crispy, juicy sausage bites bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop creamy, velvety Parmesan-coated pasta. It’s comfort food that tastes gourmet, leaving you satisfied after every bite. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner for two or a hearty family meal, this recipe will bring smiles and second helpings.
The beauty of this dish lies in its balance—savory sausage bites, fragrant garlic butter, and luscious Parmesan pasta come together in harmony. It’s quick, versatile, and endlessly customizable, making it an easy favorite for anyone looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of their own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Flavor Bomb: The bold garlic butter sauce complements the smoky sausage and creamy Parmesan pasta for an unforgettable taste.
• Easy to Make: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes with simple pantry staples and minimal prep work.
• Ultimate Comfort: Rich, creamy, and indulgent, it’s a recipe that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
• Customizable: You can switch the sausage for shrimp, chicken, or a vegetarian option, and even sneak in some veggies for extra nutrition.
Ingredients needed
For the Sausage Bites:
• Italian Sausage or Smoked Sausage: The star ingredient, providing a smoky, savory base.
• Butter & Olive Oil: For richness and browning perfection.
• Garlic & Italian Seasoning: To infuse bold, aromatic flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of freshness as a garnish.
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
• Pasta: Any shape works, but fettuccine or penne are ideal for holding the sauce.
• Heavy Cream & Butter: The foundation of the luscious cream sauce.
• Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
• Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper: To enhance the creamy sauce with a subtle kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage Bites:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until golden-brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Return the sausage to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
4. Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in heavy cream and stir until warm. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with the reserved pasta water.
5. Combine Everything:
Toss the cooked pasta in the Parmesan sauce until fully coated. Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter sausage bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a finishing touch.
Variations
• Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or skip it altogether, adding roasted mushrooms or spinach instead.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Swap the Protein: Try chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage for a different twist.
Storage
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
• Freeze: The garlic butter sausage and sauce can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving with fresh pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly, but pre-grated can work in a pinch—just expect a slightly grainy texture.
2. What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, but any pasta will do.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage and seasonings are gluten-free as well.
The Goods
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
We appreciate you taking the time to rate!
Recipes
For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta fettuccine, penne, or your favorite
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and garlic powder, whisking constantly.
- Gradually add Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss cooked pasta in the Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
To Serve:
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter sausage bites.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor.
Leave a Reply