Print

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta – A Rich & Flavorful Comfort Dish You’ll Crave

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta – A Rich & Flavorful Comfort Dish You'll Crave

If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and full of bold smoky flavor, this Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner. Tender penne pasta, crispy smoked sausage, and a velvety cream sauce come together in a dish that’s simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for pasta lovers!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced

  • 12 oz penne pasta

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced smoked sausage and cook 5–7 minutes, until browned and crispy.
Remove sausage and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes, until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 3–4 minutes to slightly thicken.

5. Add Cheese & Seasonings

Stir in mozzarella, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix until cheese melts and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Everything

Return browned sausage to the skillet, then add the drained pasta.
Toss well to coat every piece with the creamy sauce.

7. Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve warm and enjoy the rich, smoky, cheesy goodness!

Notes

  • Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

  • Swap mozzarella for Parmesan or an Italian cheese blend.

  • Make it lighter by substituting heavy cream with half-and-half.

  • For extra veggies, stir in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes.