This Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory taste of Italian sausage. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

I love making this Sausage Alfredo Pasta because it’s a creamy, satisfying dish that always impresses me. The richness of the Alfredo sauce paired with the bold flavors of Italian sausage creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe always stands out.

This is a dish I like to prepare for busy weeknights or even dinner parties because it’s so versatile and loved by everyone. And let’s be honest, this recipe is my favorite for creamy pasta dishes. I’m not gonna lie — I love how the sauce clings to the pasta and how the sausage adds a savory kick. It’s always my first choice for a quick, flavorful meal.

I make this pasta with simple ingredients like fresh Parmesan, heavy cream, and perfectly cooked sausage. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms and adjust the spices to your liking. The result? Just wow! You’ll love it for sure.

For a perfect pairing, serve it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad or even a light soup. This recipe is super easy to make and always delivers restaurant-quality results.

Why This Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe Is Great

This Sausage Alfredo Pasta is great because it combines rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with Italian sausage’s bold, savory flavors. The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it’s also impressive enough for special occasions.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, adjust the spices for more heat, or even switch the pasta type. It’s a one-pan wonder that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Perfect for: Family dinners, romantic date nights, or when you’re craving a comforting, creamy meal.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Skillet or large sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

How to make Creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta

Step 1:

Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Remove excess grease if necessary.

Step 3:

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4:

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6:

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta and serve hot. Add extra Parmesan if desired.

Additional Tips

• Experiment with spicy, mild, or even chicken sausage to change up the flavor. Each type brings its unique twist to the dish.
• Stir in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added texture and nutrients. These complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Fettuccine is classic, but penne, rigatoni, or even gnocchi work well. The sauce clings wonderfully to all shapes.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle kick that balances the creaminess.
• Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for an even richer, creamier texture.
• Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or even crispy fried onions for an extra layer of flavor.
• Toss in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier version of this pasta dish.

What to Serve with Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe

For serving, always think about balancing the creamy richness of the pasta. My go-to is garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. They’re perfect for mopping up every bit of the delicious sauce.

A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully, too. The crisp greens and tangy dressing cut through the heaviness of the Alfredo, creating a refreshing contrast.

For drinks, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon complements the dish perfectly. These light beverages cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of the meal.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a meat-free option.

Seafood Alfredo: Replace sausage with cooked shrimp or crabmeat for a luxurious seafood twist.

Spicy Alfredo: Use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a bold, fiery flavor.

Chicken Alfredo: Swap sausage for grilled or shredded chicken for a lighter protein choice.

Low-Carb Option: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a healthier alternative.

Cheese Blend: Mix Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a more complex cheesy flavor.

How to Store

Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in individual portions using freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop. Note that the sauce may slightly separate, but stirring in a little extra cream will bring it back together.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sausage?

• Yes, you can use spicy, mild, chicken, or turkey sausage based on your preference.

What type of pasta works best?

• Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or linguine also work well.

Can I make this dish lighter?

• Yes, use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage for fewer calories.

What can I add for extra flavor?

• Add red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or a touch of garlic powder for a flavor boost.

Can I add vegetables?

• Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli are great additions to this dish.

What kind of cheese is best for Alfredo sauce?

• Parmesan is classic, but you can mix in Pecorino Romano or Asiago for added depth.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

• Cook the sauce over low heat and stir constantly while adding the cream and cheese.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

• Yes, slice or crumble the pre-cooked sausage and heat it in the skillet before adding the sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute for the sauce if thickening is needed.

Conclusion

This Sausage Alfredo Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy indulgence and bold, savory flavors. It’s a quick and easy dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite for family and friends.

Sausage Alfredo Pasta

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: Italian, AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

This Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory taste of Italian sausage. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

• Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Remove excess grease if necessary.
• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta and serve hot. Add extra Parmesan if desired.