There’s something magical about the combination of garlicky, buttery sausage bites and rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet effortless, packed with bold flavors that come together in minutes. Imagine sizzling sausage bites coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with velvety pasta drenched in Parmesan goodness. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing meal, or just something cozy and satisfying, this recipe delivers on all fronts. So, grab your apron, and let’s make something seriously delicious!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect for any occasion—weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. It’s one of those dishes that you can dress up or keep simple, depending on your mood.
Budget-Friendly
Uses affordable pantry staples while delivering restaurant-quality flavor. No need for expensive ingredients to enjoy a rich, satisfying meal.
Quick and Easy
This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Customizable
Switch up the sausage type, play with different pasta shapes, or add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra goodness.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Here’s the magic of this recipe—it’s made with simple ingredients, but the flavors are out of this world. Let’s break it down:
Sausage
The heart of this dish! Use your favorite type—Italian, smoked, or spicy. Slicing them into bite-sized pieces ensures they get crispy and golden in the pan.
Butter
This is where the magic happens. Butter creates a rich, velvety base for the garlic and sausage to shine.
Garlic
The star of the show! Fresh garlic infuses the butter with bold, aromatic flavor that takes the dish to another level.
Pasta
Choose your favorite pasta—fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work beautifully. The sauce clings perfectly to every bite.
Heavy Cream
Gives the pasta its luxurious, creamy texture. It balances the savory sausage and garlic flavors perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty richness that ties everything together.
Chicken Broth
Enhances the depth of flavor and helps create the perfect creamy sauce consistency.
Italian Seasoning
A blend of herbs that adds warmth and balance to the dish.
Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley
A pop of freshness that brightens up the dish and makes it look extra inviting.
Instructions
Sauté the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sliced sausage. Cook until browned and crispy on both sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan and Seasoning
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything melt together into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, then toss in the drained pasta. Stir everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, give it a final toss, and serve warm. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky, buttery bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 650
(*Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for extra indulgence
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
- A glass of white wine for an elegant touch
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it helps create a silky sauce.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy sausage.
- Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta in the same skillet (just add extra broth!).
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Faq’s
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Any pasta shape works, but ones with ridges or curves hold the sauce best.
Can I substitute the heavy cream? Absolutely! Half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce will be less rich.
How do I make this dish spicier? Use spicy sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage? Yes, but searing it in the pan adds extra flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat this pasta? Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Thaw and reheat gently.
Can I make it dairy-free? Use dairy-free butter, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
What protein alternatives work well? Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can replace the sausage.
Can I add veggies? Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is a must-try. Now, grab a fork and dig in—you won’t regret it!
Print
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This easy and delicious dish features juicy sausage bites sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over a creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Sausage Bites:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Set aside.
-
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
-
Assemble and Serve:
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter sausage bites.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to reduce calories.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg