Indulge your taste buds with this delicious smoked sausage and mozzarella pasta recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish marries the smoky flavor of sausage with the creamy goodness of mozzarella, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe guarantees satisfaction and warmth with every bite.
Ingredients
– 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
Servings: 4 | Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Value
This recipe provides approximately 650 calories per serving (1 cup). It contains 30g of protein, 45g of carbohydrates, and 40g of fat. Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and add heavy cream, stirring to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add the cooked pasta and gently toss to coat in the sauce.
9. Stir in the cubed mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can also use low-fat mozzarella or plant-based cheese for a healthier or dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with a chilled white wine or sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid using too much salt, as the sausage can be salty.
– Ensure the cream is heated gently to prevent curdling.
– Don’t skip the parsley garnish for added flavor.
– Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and taste.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different pasta shapes for variety.
– Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
– For added spice, include crushed red pepper flakes.
– Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda, but mozzarella provides the best melting quality and creaminess for this dish.
Is this pasta dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pasta keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables or using plant-based sausage alternatives.
What can I serve this pasta with?
This pasta pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
To prevent the sauce from separating, avoid boiling it after adding the cream and keep the heat low while stirring continuously.
Conclusion
This smoked sausage and mozzarella pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time!
Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb smoked sausage sliced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and add heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and gently toss to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the cubed mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
