Some nights call for something hearty, comforting, and fast—without compromising on flavor.

This Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta checks every box.

Juicy sausage bites are seared and tossed in garlicky butter, then served over a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to pull together.

Why I Love This Recipe

The buttery garlic sausage is rich and bold with minimal effort.

The creamy pasta is silky, cheesy, and comforting without being heavy.

You can mix and match pastas or sausages based on what you have.

It’s a full meal in one, perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Smoked or Italian sausage – Sliced and seared for deep flavor.

Butter + olive oil – For richness and a golden crust.

Garlic + Italian seasoning – Fragrant and herby base for the sausage.

Heavy cream + Parmesan cheese – Creates that luscious, silky sauce.

Pasta of choice – Fettuccine or penne are ideal for holding sauce.

Fresh parsley – Adds brightness and color to balance the richness.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Brown the sausage well – Adds great texture and flavor depth.

Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and tastes fresher.

Reserve a bit of pasta water – Great for thinning the sauce if needed.

Don’t overcook the garlic – Just 1–2 minutes for best flavor, not bitterness.

Toss pasta right before serving – Keeps it creamy, not clumpy.

How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add sausage slices and cook 4–5 minutes until browned on both sides.

Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In the same skillet, melt butter.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Return the sausage to the pan and toss with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Garnish with parsley and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add heavy cream and garlic powder.

Stir constantly, then slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.

Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine

Toss cooked pasta in the Parmesan sauce until fully coated.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the pasta, top with garlic butter sausage bites, and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley.

What to Serve It With

Roasted broccoli or asparagus – Bright and fresh side for balance.

Garlic bread or focaccia – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Mixed greens salad – With lemon vinaigrette to cut through richness.

Chilled white wine or sparkling water – A refreshing pairing.

Grated Parmesan on the table – Always a good idea.

Variations / Substitutions

Use kielbasa or chorizo – Any flavorful sausage works here.

Try a different pasta – Rotini, bow ties, or rigatoni are great alternatives.

Add veggies – Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas go well with the cream sauce.

Make it spicier – Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.

Lighten it up – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk.

Freeze: Best frozen without the sausage for texture. Reheat sauce and add freshly cooked sausage when serving.

Make ahead: The sausage and sauce can be prepared a day ahead and assembled fresh.

Avoid overcooking pasta when reheating – It can become mushy, so reheat gently.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes! Just brown it for flavor and texture.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Whole milk works in a pinch, but the sauce will be thinner.

Is this dish spicy?
Only if you use spicy sausage or add pepper flakes—it’s mild by default.

How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the sausage and add roasted veggies or meatless sausage.

Does the pasta need to be tossed in sauce immediately?
Yes, for best texture and flavor—don’t let the pasta sit too long.

Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Just use a larger skillet or pot for the sauce and sausage.

How do I keep leftovers creamy?
Add a splash of cream or pasta water when reheating to revive the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Sausage with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the kind of comfort food that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together with pantry staples.

The richness of the cream sauce, the sizzle of garlicky sausage, and the tenderness of pasta make this a dinner you’ll want to make again and again—whether for weeknight ease or weekend indulgence.

The Boat Shed Kitchen