This hearty and flavorful dish combines the rich, savory taste of smoked sausage with the comforting textures of pasta. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and uses just a few simple ingredients. The smoked sausage adds a robust flavor that infuses the entire dish, while the vegetables and herbs provide a fresh and vibrant contrast. The creamy sauce ties everything together, creating a satisfying and delicious meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Return the smoked sausage to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and sausage are well coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
This dish can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!
