This creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With tasty sausage mixed into rich Alfredo sauce, it’s a real treat!
I can’t resist topping it with a sprinkle of parmesan. Trust me, that little extra touch makes it so much better. Pair it with garlic bread, and you’ve got a winner! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta, or farfalle, adds a fun shape to the dish. If you don’t have it, use penne or fettuccine instead. Just cook according to package instructions for similar results.
Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the dish. Choose between mild or spicy, depending on your preference. You could use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can combine half and half with whole milk instead, though it won’t be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated Parmesan will work, but it may not melt as smoothly. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative for a cheesy flavor!
Spinach: This adds color and nutrition. You can substitute it with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Make Creamy Alfredo Sauce Without It Curdling?
Creating a smooth Alfredo sauce might seem tricky, but there are a few steps to follow to avoid any curdling. First, be sure to use medium heat when melting the butter and sautéing the garlic. Too high of a heat can cause the cream to separate.
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk gently together and let them simmer, not boil. This allows them to thicken without curdling.
- When adding the Parmesan, make sure it’s freshly grated. Gradually stir it in after lowering the heat so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Lastly, always taste and adjust with salt and pepper after adding the cheese to enhance the flavor without overwhelming it.
Following these tips will help you achieve a deliciously creamy sauce every time. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
For The Sausage:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds
For The Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Optional Additions:
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sausage Alfredo Pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare. That includes boiling the pasta, cooking the sausage, and making the creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook for about 5-6 minutes. Make sure to turn the sausage occasionally until it’s browned and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant but not browned. Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
4. Incorporate Parmesan:
Lower the heat to low, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Don’t forget to taste it and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
5. Combine with Sausage and Spinach:
Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet. If you’re using the spinach, toss it in now as well. Stir everything together and cook just until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Mix In the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with that creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your delicious Sausage Alfredo Pasta while it’s hot. For garnish, feel free to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top, along with a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy!
This comforting dish is sure to please your family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) works great in this recipe, you can substitute it with penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use a mix of milk and a little cornstarch for a creamy texture. Just be careful not to boil it to avoid separating!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without drying out the pasta.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use a plant-based sausage substitute or skip it entirely. For added flavor, consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the garlic.
