Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: garlic butter sausage pasta! Seriously, this dish is a game-changer. Just imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, with juicy slices of sausage adding a savory punch. It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance with joy. I love whipping this up when I’m short on time but craving something that feels comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s so easy to make! I often find myself experimenting with whatever I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious. The combination of garlic, butter, and sausage is just irresistible, and I promise, once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation too. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to make your garlic butter sausage pasta truly shine:
- 200g pasta (any type you love, like penne or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for that rich, creamy goodness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (the star of the show for flavor)
- 300g sausage, sliced (I usually go for Italian sausage, but any kind works!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (to sprinkle on top for a delicious finish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t shy away from seasoning!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (for that pop of color and freshness)
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta
Making garlic butter sausage pasta is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through every delicious step! Let’s get cooking!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, you’ll want to cook your pasta. Grab a large pot and fill it with water—enough so the pasta can float around freely. Bring it to a rolling boil and don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt; this is where the pasta starts soaking up flavor! Once the water’s boiling, toss in your 200g pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it tender but with just a little bite. Once it’s done, drain it in a colander and set it aside while you work on the sauce!
Sautéing the Garlic and Sausage
Now, let’s get that incredible garlic aroma filling your kitchen! In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Let it foam a bit, and then add in those 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Next, toss in your 300g of sliced sausage. I love using Italian sausage for this, but any variety you have will do. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too crispy!
Combining Ingredients
Once your sausage is looking golden and delicious, it’s time to bring it all together! Drain the pasta if you haven’t already, and gently add it to the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Give it a good toss to mix everything together. Here’s the key: make sure every strand of pasta is coated in that rich, buttery garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, you want it to be flavorful! Mixing thoroughly is crucial here, so all those lovely flavors meld beautifully.
Finishing Touches
Almost there! Just before serving, sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give it another quick toss. It melts into the pasta, adding that creamy richness we all crave. Then, chop up some fresh parsley and garnish your dish—it adds such a nice pop of color and freshness! Serve immediately to enjoy it at its best. Trust me, this dish is meant to be savored fresh and hot!
FAQ Section
Can I use any type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you love for this garlic butter sausage pasta. Whether it’s spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options, they all work wonderfully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape you choose!
How can I add more flavor?
If you’re looking to amp up the flavor, there are so many fun options! Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic touch. You could even toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for an extra layer of deliciousness. The beauty of this dish is that it’s super customizable!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just place any leftover garlic butter sausage pasta in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You might want to add a splash of water or extra butter to help bring back that creamy texture—yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Easy steps make it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful combination of garlic, butter, and sausage that’s simply irresistible.
- Low fat, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt.
- Satisfying and comforting, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Tips for Success
To make sure your garlic butter sausage pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some tried-and-true tips I swear by:
- Cook the sausage until fully browned: This not only enhances the flavor but also gives that lovely caramelization that makes everything taste so much better. Don’t rush this step; let those slices get nice and golden!
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. It’ll soak up the sauce beautifully without getting mushy! Remember, it’ll continue to cook a bit when you mix it with the hot sausage and garlic.
- Add salt to the pasta water: This is a game-changer for flavor! Make sure your boiling water is nicely salted—think sea water level. It’s your first opportunity to season the pasta, and it really makes a difference.
- Mix thoroughly: When combining the pasta with the sauce, give it a good toss to ensure every strand is coated in that delicious garlic butter goodness. This way, every bite is bursting with flavor!
- Garnish just before serving: For the freshest taste, sprinkle on that chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese right before you dig in. It adds a lovely touch of color and flavor that makes the dish pop!
Variations
The beauty of garlic butter sausage pasta is its versatility! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up and make this dish your own:
- Different Sausages: Switch up the flavor by using different types of sausage. Try spicy chorizo for a kick, or go with sweet Italian sausage for a milder taste. You can even use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option!
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies for extra color and nutrition. Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli work beautifully. Just toss them into the skillet with the sausage for a few minutes until tender.
- Fresh Herbs: Boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano. Stir them in just before serving to keep their vibrant flavor intact.
- Spices and Seasonings: Experiment with different spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Italian seasoning can elevate the dish to a new level. If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes!
- Creamy Twist: For a richer version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end. It transforms your garlic butter sauce into a luscious creamy delight!
- Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is classic, try using Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist. You can mix and match to find your perfect cheesy combo!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to use what you have on hand. Let your creativity shine and make this dish truly yours! Enjoy!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of garlic butter sausage pasta. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
This dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a great option for a wholesome meal. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re treating yourself right!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover garlic butter sausage pasta is super easy, and I’ve got a few tips to help you enjoy it again later! First, let the pasta cool down to room temperature, but don’t leave it out for too long—safety first! Once it’s cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out. You should be able to keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to dig in again, reheating is a breeze! You can pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes, stirring halfway through to heat it evenly. If you find it a bit dry, just add a splash of water or a bit more butter to bring back that creamy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Just add a little butter or olive oil to the pan, toss in your pasta, and stir until it’s warmed through. This method also helps keep the flavors vibrant!
Trust me, this dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy that delicious garlic butter flavor all over again!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta
When it comes to side dishes that complement garlic butter sausage pasta, I love to keep it simple yet delicious! Here are some of my favorite pairings that elevate the meal and bring a balance of flavors:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a classic! Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment. It’s perfect for soaking up that rich sauce!
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and a zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the pasta. The creamy dressing pairs beautifully!
- Steamed Broccoli: For a healthier option, steamed broccoli brings a lovely green touch to your plate. Drizzle a bit of lemon juice over it for brightness!
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side. It adds a burst of color and flavor!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus in olive oil and roast them until tender. They add a sweet and savory contrast!
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the meal without overwhelming it.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on your mood or what you have on hand. The goal is to create a well-rounded meal that’s satisfying and enjoyable! Happy dining!
Print
Comforting Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta That Feels Like Home
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful dish combining garlic, butter, sausage, and pasta.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 300g sausage, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: garlic butter sausage pasta