If you’re searching for the perfect balance of rich flavor, satisfying texture, and quick preparation, this Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe delivers it all. Juicy, golden-browned sausage bites are tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce and paired with creamy Parmesan-coated pasta — creating a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings, this dish combines simple ingredients with restaurant-quality taste.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
For the Sausage Bites:
- 1 pound (450g) smoked or Italian sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 ounces (340g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- ¾ cup (75g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Bites
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sausage slices and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low-medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently.
- Add Parmesan cheese and cream cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Stir in the sausage bites and mix well.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or buttery rolls for extra indulgence.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for a balanced, colorful meal.
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad with vinaigrette.
- Complement the dish with a glass of chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 portion) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein | 24 grams |
| Total Fat | 34 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 16 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 940 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Parmesan cheese adds calcium and umami richness.
- Sausage provides protein and depth of flavor — opt for lean chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Heavy cream gives a luxurious texture; substitute with half-and-half for fewer calories.
- Add veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients without changing the creamy flavor.
Tips for Best Results
- For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding cream.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts smoother and enhances the sauce.
- Adjust spice levels by adding or reducing red pepper flakes.
- Reheat leftovers gently over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Variations to Try
- Cajun Twist: Add Cajun seasoning to the sausage for a spicy Southern kick.
- Mushroom Lovers: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic butter before adding cream.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Herb Upgrade: Stir in basil, thyme, or oregano for added aroma and flavor.
This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a rich and flavorful comfort meal. Every bite combines smoky sausage, silky pasta, and a decadent garlic-Parmesan sauce — perfect for any dinner occasion.
It’s quick to make, deeply satisfying, and sure to become a new family favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal, this dish guarantees comfort and flavor in every bite.