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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce. Set the cooked pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage Bites
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and break it into small bite-sized pieces. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Use a spoon to break up the sausage as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the cream thickens slightly. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Combine Sausage and Pasta
Return the cooked sausage bites to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the garlic butter sauce and sausage bites. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy sausage pasta in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
- Customize the Sausage: If you prefer turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version, feel free to use that instead of traditional pork sausage. You can also opt for spicy sausage if you like a little more heat.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the sausage to bulk up the dish and add color.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will be mixed into the sauce later, be sure to cook it al dente. This ensures it doesn’t become too soft when combined with the creamy sauce.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce to the pasta before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of garlic butter and parmesan cheese in the sauce provides a rich, velvety base that coats the pasta beautifully. The Italian sausage adds a savory, hearty element to the dish, while the sausage bites offer a satisfying contrast to the smoothness of the creamy sauce. The balance of flavors and textures makes this dish feel luxurious, yet it’s easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It combines comforting flavors, rich textures, and a perfect balance of savory, creamy goodness. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, feed a hungry family, or simply enjoy a satisfying meal, this recipe delivers every time. It’s a meal that’s full of flavor, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this delicious, creamy pasta dish that’s bursting with savory goodness in every bite!
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