This creamy mozzarella pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With rich cheese and smoky sausage, every bite feels like a treat. Plus, it cooks up quickly for busy days.
You know what makes this dish special? The gooey cheese! I often find myself going back for seconds—who can resist that? 😋 Grab a fork and enjoy this hearty meal any time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne or rigatoni are great choices for this dish. They hold the creamy sauce well! If you want a gluten-free option, you could use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
Smoked Sausage: This brings a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage can work too. You can also use chicken sausage or omit it entirely for a vegetarian dish.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut cream is a great non-dairy alternative if you’re going vegan.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan gives depth. If you can’t find mozzarella, try using provolone or fontina cheese for a similar texture and taste.
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth Without Clumps?
Getting a creamy, smooth sauce can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to melt the cheese gradually. Here’s how to ensure your sauce turns out perfectly:
- Make sure your skillet is on medium heat before adding the cream.
- Add the cheese in small handfuls while constantly stirring. This helps keep it smooth!
- If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t panic! Just mix in a little pasta water a bit at a time until you get the desired consistency.
Following these steps will help you avoid clumps and get that creamy texture you want!
How to Make Creamy Mozzarella Pasta with Smoked Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy mozzarella pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights. Simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a rich and flavorful meal that your whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm yet cooked). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
Using the same pot or a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is nicely browned on both sides. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine it with the onions and garlic. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for a couple of minutes. Gradually add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into a silky sauce. If it gets too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Now, season your creamy sauce with salt, black pepper, and the crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir well, then return the browned smoked sausage back into the skillet and mix it in with the sauce.
6. Add the Pasta:
Finally, add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. The rich flavors of the sausage and cheeses will cling to every bite!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy mozzarella pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a lovely pop of color. Enjoy this cozy dish with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just cook it the same way as the smoked sausage to achieve that delicious browned texture!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like some heat, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños or fresh chili peppers when cooking the onions. Just adjust to your spice tolerance!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Simply skip the sausage and add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauté step. You can also replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce if needed!
