This Sausage Alfredo Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor! The sausage adds a tasty kick, while the rich alfredo sauce makes everything feel cozy and comforting.
Is there anything better than pasta coated in creamy goodness? I always sneak extra servings because it’s just so hard to resist! Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide noodle works perfectly in Alfredo sauces. If you’re looking for a substitute, try penne or linguine. They both hold the sauce well.
Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Just know the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Plant-based milk can also work in a pinch but may alter the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option can be great alternatives.
How Do I Make the Perfect Alfredo Sauce?
The key to a delicious Alfredo sauce is all about balancing the creaminess with flavors. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating olive oil and cooking the sausage until it’s browned, which adds depth to the sauce.
- When you sauté garlic, don’t let it burn; it should be fragrant but not dark.
- Use low heat when adding the heavy cream. Bringing it to a simmer lets the flavors blend without scorching.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese slowly until fully melted for a smooth sauce. Adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor.
For creamy perfection, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sausage:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 12 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds
Vegetable and Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable Sausage Alfredo Pasta takes around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15 minutes cooking everything together, resulting in a comforting meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot and adding the fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm but cooked). Once done, drain the pasta but remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water—this will help adjust the sauce later if needed.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage rounds and cook them until they are nicely browned on both sides and completely cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened.
4. Add the Spinach:
Now, toss in the fresh baby spinach. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it wilts down, making everything look colorful and delicious.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the unsalted butter and stir until it’s completely melted. Then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, just add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
7. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your delicious Sausage Alfredo Pasta hot. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use penne, linguine, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Reduce the amount of cheese, and opt for turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork to cut down on fat.
What Should I Do with Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or additional cream to restore the creaminess in the sauce.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for more flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the bell pepper for a vibrant dish!
