Let me tell you, garlic butter sausage pasta is my go-to dish when I need something quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious! Seriously, there’s nothing like the smell of sizzling garlic and sausage wafting through the kitchen—it instantly lifts my spirits. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when I want to whip up dinner in a flash without sacrificing flavor. I remember the first time I made this for friends; they were completely blown away by how something so simple could taste so rich and comforting. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a favorite in your home too. Let’s dive into making this savory delight!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (use your favorite type, I love penne or spaghetti!)
- 2 tbsp butter (unsalted is best for controlling the salt)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (more if you’re feeling adventurous!)
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed (go for spicy or mild, depending on your taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works wonders here)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (for that lovely pop of color and freshness)
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 8 oz of pasta. I usually follow the package instructions, but for most types, you’re looking at about 8-10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. Just make sure to taste it a minute or two before the timer goes off. You want it to have a little bite to it, so it can soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sausage
While your pasta is cooking, let’s get to the good stuff! In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and starting to bubble, toss in the minced garlic. Oh wow, the aroma is heavenly! Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant—don’t let it brown too much, or it can get bitter. Now, add in the 1 lb of Italian sausage, breaking it up as you go. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing right about now!
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Alright, let’s bring this all together! When your pasta is done, drain it and add it straight to the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is coated in that luscious garlic butter. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it another good toss! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color. I love to pair this with a crisp green salad on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy every savory bite!
Tips for Success
To make this garlic butter sausage pasta truly shine, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, don’t be afraid to experiment with different pasta shapes—fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free varieties all work beautifully. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add more minced garlic for that extra punch of flavor. Just remember, if you’re not a fan of too much garlic, start with less and adjust to your taste. For the sausage, you can mix things up with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor profile a bit. Lastly, timing is key! Make sure to toss the pasta with the sauce while it’s still hot, so it absorbs all those delicious flavors. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please note that nutritional values for this garlic butter sausage pasta may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors like the type of pasta, sausage, and even the butter can affect the final nutritional content. I always recommend checking the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate information. Cooking is all about personal preference, so feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs while still enjoying all the delicious flavors!
FAQ about Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can switch things up by using turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that this might alter the flavor a bit—turkey sausage tends to be milder. If you’re in the mood for a little spice, feel free to try chorizo or andouille sausage for an extra kick. Each type brings its own unique touch to the dish, so don’t hesitate to explore what you love best!
How can I make this dish healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor, there are a few easy swaps you can make! First, try using whole wheat pasta for more fiber. You can also reduce the amount of butter by using just 1 tablespoon instead of 2, or even swap in olive oil for a heart-healthy fat. If you’re a cheese lover, consider reducing the Parmesan cheese to 1/4 cup or using a lower-fat version. Lastly, adding in some fresh veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a lovely color and crunch!
What can I serve with garlic butter sausage pasta?
This pasta is so hearty that it pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides! A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is always a hit, as it balances out the richness of the dish. You might also consider serving it with garlic bread for that extra indulgence—who can resist? If you want to add some veggies to the mix, steamed broccoli or sautéed zucchini would be fantastic choices. They’ll add color and nutrients, making your meal even more satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Rich, savory flavors that make every bite irresistible.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite pasta and sausage.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner party.
- One-pan dish means less cleanup, which is always a win!
- Great for meal prep—delicious leftovers that taste just as good the next day.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, if you find yourself with leftovers (which I highly doubt because this dish is that good!), here’s how to store them properly. Let the garlic butter sausage pasta cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to separate the pasta and sauce if I can, just to maintain that lovely texture when reheating.
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Just place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir it occasionally until heated through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid to avoid splatters. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Enjoy your delicious pasta again—it’s just as comforting the second time around!
Print
Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta: 7 Savory Joys in Every Bite
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory garlic butter sausage pasta that is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use your preferred type of pasta.
- Adjust garlic according to taste.
- Can substitute sausage with turkey or chicken sausage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: garlic butter sausage pasta