Smoked Sausage Penne Alfredo

Smoked Sausage Penne Alfredo

Indulge your taste buds with a creamy, savory delight that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table! Our Smoked Sausage Penne Alfredo is not just another pasta dish—it's a mouthwatering experience that combines tender penne, rich Alfredo sauce, and smoky sausage in a symphony of flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 12 oz penne pasta
  2. 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
  3. 1 cup heavy cream
  4. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of penne pasta, 1 lb of smoked sausage (sliced), 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through.
  4. Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the sausage and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, letting the cream thicken slightly.
  6. Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained penne to the skillet with the sausage and Alfredo sauce, tossing to combine everything evenly.
  8. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
  9. Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit for a minute. This will help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
  10. Serve the Smoked Sausage Penne Alfredo immediately, garnishing with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian meal!

Tips

  1. Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook your penne pasta al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
  2. Sautéing the Sausage: For extra flavor, consider using a smoked sausage with herbs or spices. This will add depth to your dish and enhance the overall taste.
  3. Creamy Consistency: If your Alfredo sauce turns out too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water. This not only adjusts the consistency but also helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.
  4. Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Plus, it makes for a beautiful presentation!
  5. Make it Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in with the sausage for a few minutes to soften.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 902kcal

Carbohydrates: g

Protein: g

Fat: 65g

Saturated Fat: 29g

Cholesterol: 170mg

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