Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
A rich and comforting creamy smoked sausage pasta dish that's quick to make and perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz kielbasa or smoked sausage beef, pork, turkey, or mixed
- 16 oz pasta rotini, penne, shells, or your favorite shape
- 2 tbsp butter adds richness and flavor
- 2 tbsp minced garlic jarred or fresh
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream creates the silky base
- 2 8 oz cans tomato sauce smooth tomato foundation
- 3 tbsp tomato paste deepens flavor and thickens
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese fresh melts best
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- to taste dried parsley optional, for color
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Salt a pot of boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
Browning the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until golden and crisp around the edges. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Let sauce gently bubble for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combining the Dish
- Add cooked pasta and browned sausage to the skillet, tossing to coat.
Serving
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and dried parsley before serving warm.
Notes
For presentation, serve in shallow bowls so the sauce pools around the pasta. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce.