If you’re looking for a dish that’s weeknight-easy but dinner-party-worthy, this Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is it. Juicy, golden-browned sausage meets garlicky butter sauce, silky cream, and a generous helping of Parmesan cheese—all tossed with your favorite pasta for the ultimate comfort food.
It’s hearty, full of flavor, and comes together in just one skillet (plus a pot for the pasta!). This is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is bold and buttery, but not overly heavy. It hits all the right notes: savory sausage, aromatic garlic, creamy sauce, and a kick of Parmesan. It’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent, but is easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.
It also plays well with different pasta shapes, sausage types, and spice levels—so you can easily make it your own.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb turkey sausage links (or chicken sausage), sliced into bite-sized rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🛠️ Substitutions & Tips
- Sausage: Use any fully cooked sausage—turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options.
- Cream: Sub with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated Parm melts best. Avoid pre-shredded for a smoother sauce.
- Pasta shapes: Penne, rigatoni, or shells work great to capture the sauce.
👩🍳 How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water to help loosen the sauce later, if needed. Set the cooked pasta aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and heated through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything
Return sausage and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything until coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot and glossy.
🌟 Tips for Success
- Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor base.
- Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be golden and fragrant, not browned.
- Add the pasta water slowly, stirring as you go to emulsify the sauce.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Round out your meal with a few appetizers or sides:
- This Baked Kosher Salami for a bold and savory starter
- These Easy Turkey Wings if you want a meat-forward spread
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fun fusion meal
- This Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Sauce as a pasta night companion
- This Beer Cheese Dip for snacking while you cook!
🧊 Storage & Reheat Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not ideal, as the cream sauce can separate—best enjoyed fresh!
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is the perfect comfort dish for when you want something hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy dinner win that feels like a special treat—without the hassle.
Tried it? Drop a comment below or tag @chefmaniac to show us your garlic butter masterpiece! And don’t forget to subscribe for more bold, buttery dinners and flavor-packed pasta favorites.
Leave a Reply