Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It beautifully combines tender rotini pasta, smoky sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with garlic and herbs. The creamy sauce wraps every bite with just the right amount of indulgence, while the diced tomatoes add a subtle tang and vibrant color. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients list is straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen. Each component plays an important role, from the smoldering flavor of the smoked sausage to the silky texture of the half and half, making this dish a delightful medley of tastes and colors.

• 16 oz rotini pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that luscious sauce in every twist.
• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced: Brings a savory, smoky depth that makes the dish memorable.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps create a flavorful roux for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons flour: Essential for thickening the sauce to a creamy perfection.
• 4 to 7 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.
• 3 cups half and half: The creamy base for the sauce, balancing richness and lightness.
• 1 cup chicken stock: Adds depth and a subtle savory note to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Provides a mild, warming spice.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: A fragrant herb that complements the sausage beautifully.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice): Melts into the sauce, creating irresistibly gooey goodness.
• 15 oz diced tomatoes, drained: Adds a pop of acidity and lovely color contrast.
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty finish just before serving.

How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the rotini pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This step ensures your pasta holds up well as it soaks in the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set it aside while we prepare the delicious sausage and sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced smoked sausage. Let it cook until it’s browned around the edges, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This browning step amps up the smoky flavor and adds a bit of texture contrast. After browning, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Using the same skillet, melt the salted butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic just until it becomes fragrant — usually about one minute. This step infuses the butter with garlic’s wonderful aroma, creating the perfect flavor foundation for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly. The goal here is to cook the flour for 1 to 2 minutes to get rid of any raw taste and promote a smooth, thickening base for your sauce. Keep stirring to prevent lumps and achieve that silky texture.

Step 5: Whisk in the Half and Half and Chicken Stock

Slowly pour in the half and half and chicken stock while continually whisking. This method ensures the mixture comes together without any lumps and starts to thicken beautifully. The combination of half and half and stock creates a sauce that’s creamy but still light enough to keep the dish balanced.

Step 6: Season and Simmer the Sauce

Add salt, pepper, and oregano to the sauce and let it simmer gently for about five minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken perfectly, which is crucial for coating the pasta and sausage evenly later on.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely, transforming the sauce into a luscious, cheesy dream. Fold in the drained diced tomatoes to introduce a fresh tang and vibrant specks of red, which not only enhance flavor but also give the dish an appetizing look.

Step 8: Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Sauce

Return the cooked sausage and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to make sure every piece of pasta and sausage is luxuriously coated with the creamy sauce. Heat through until everything is piping hot and ready to serve.

Step 9: Finish with Parmesan

Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. The salty, nutty notes of Parmesan add the perfect finishing touch, turning an already delightful meal into something truly special.

How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil not only brighten up the plate but also add a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. A little extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil can make the presentation even more inviting. These simple garnishes elevate the mood of your meal and make every bite feel thoughtful.

Side Dishes

Because this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is quite rich and filling, pairing it with light, crisp side dishes works wonderfully. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables adds balance and a touch of crunch. Garlic bread or crusty bread also makes a great companion to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can make any meal feel special. Try serving the pasta in individual bowls topped with a colorful sprinkle of herbs and Parmesan. For a rustic vibe, serve it family-style straight from the skillet. You could also portion it out in small ramekins for a chic dinner party option. No matter how you serve it, this dish always impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen when chilled, but be sure to keep it sealed tightly to maintain the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta dish, but keep in mind that cream-based sauces sometimes separate slightly after freezing. To minimize this, cool the pasta completely before packing it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and use it within one month for the best quality.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with short bursts to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of milk or chicken stock while reheating will help restore the creamy texture that makes the Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is fantastic for holding the sauce, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for smoked sausage?

If smoked sausage isn’t your thing, try kielbasa, Andouille sausage, or even a smoky ham. Each will lend a unique twist but still complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, using dairy-free milk alternatives like oat or almond milk and vegan butter can work. Also, choose dairy-free cheese substitutes to keep the dish creamy and delicious without dairy.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe has a mild warmth from the pepper and herbaceous oregano, but it’s not spicy. You can always add red pepper flakes if you want to kick up the heat.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge, but it’s best to toss the pasta and sausage in just before serving to keep everything fresh and perfectly textured.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe quickly becomes a favorite because it brings together bold flavors and rich comfort in every bite. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy night but impressive enough to serve guests. Give it a try and watch it become a go-to dish that everyone asks for again and again.

Print