There are days when I just want a bowl of something creamy, cozy, and effortless—and this pasta is exactly that kind of comfort food.

The garlicky cream sauce hugs every bite of gluten-free pasta, while golden-browned chicken sausage adds just enough savoriness to keep things exciting.

Whether I’m making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the next day, this dish never disappoints.

Why I Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Sausage Pasta

It’s quick and easy—perfect for weeknight dinners.

The sauce is creamy, garlicky, and loaded with Italian flavors.

It’s naturally gluten-free with the right pasta.

The browned chicken sausage adds a delicious smoky bite.

It tastes amazing the next day, too—leftovers never go to waste.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Chicken sausage – Sliced into rounds and seared for maximum flavor. Use your favorite fully cooked variety.

Heavy cream & butter – These create the creamy base that holds everything together.

Parmigiano Reggiano – Adds salty, nutty depth and makes the sauce ultra luscious.

Minced garlic – A bold layer of real garlic flavor throughout the sauce.

Italian seasoning + spices – A balance of garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg.

Gluten-free pasta – I love fusilli for its ability to hold the sauce, but any shape works.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Slice the sausage evenly so it browns uniformly.

Don’t skip the wine—it brightens the creamy sauce.

Add the Parmesan gradually to avoid clumping.

Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

Let the sauce simmer after adding cheese for best consistency.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Brown the sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the sausage rounds and cook until golden on both sides.

Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the flavor base

In the same skillet, melt the butter.

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

Stir in Italian seasoning, then deglaze with white wine.

Lower the heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Make the cream sauce

Gradually stir in heavy cream.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), nutmeg, black pepper, and salt.

Sprinkle in Parmesan and whisk until smooth.

Let it simmer and thicken gently.

Step 4: Cook the pasta

Boil the gluten-free fusilli according to package instructions.

Stop cooking just before al dente.

Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 5: Combine everything

Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss well.

If the sauce is too thick, loosen with reserved pasta water.

Return the sausage to the pan and mix everything together.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

What to Serve It With

A crisp arugula or Caesar salad

Garlic bread or gluten-free dinner rolls

Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans

Variations / Substitutions

Sausage – Try spicy Italian chicken sausage or turkey sausage.

Dairy-free – Use plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan for a vegan version.

Add veggies – Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes! Any pasta you love will work just fine here.

What can I substitute for white wine?
Use chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice for a similar brightness.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine just before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you add red pepper flakes—feel free to adjust to taste.

How do I avoid a clumpy sauce?
Use room-temperature cream and slowly whisk in the cheese for a smooth result.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers.

Reheat slowly and add liquid as needed.

Is it kid-friendly?
Definitely! Omit the wine and red pepper for younger palates.

Final Thoughts

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken sausage pasta is the kind of weeknight magic I turn to again and again.

It’s cozy, flavorful, and simple without ever feeling boring.

Best of all, it’s flexible enough to adapt with whatever sausage or pasta you have on hand.

Once you make it, you’ll want to keep the recipe close—it’s that good.

The Boat Shed Kitchen