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Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Indulge in the perfect combination of savory sausage bites caramelized in garlic butter and creamy Parmesan pasta. This comforting dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.  
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:
  • 1 lb smoked or Italian sausage sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
  • 12 oz pasta penne, fettuccine, or your choice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley and Parmesan for garnish, optional

Method
 

Cook the Sausage Bites:
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sausage slices and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Return the sausage to the skillet, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining the pasta.
Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring constantly as it begins to simmer.
  3. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
  1. Add cooked pasta to the Parmesan sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
Assemble and Serve:
  1. Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter sausage bites.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a restaurant-quality finish.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate your Parmesan fresh for the creamiest sauce.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: A splash of pasta water can enhance the sauce’s creaminess and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.