Description

This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Combining the smoky flavors of kielbasa with a luscious tomato-Parmesan sauce and tender pasta, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it's a meal that delights both kids and adults alike

Ingredients

• For the Pasta and Sausage:
• 12 oz package of kielbasa, sliced into small rounds
• 16 oz box of your favorite pasta (penne, rigatoni, or bow tie works best)
• For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 (8 oz) cans of tomato sauce
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• For Garnish:
• Dried parsley or fresh basil (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Kielbasa and Pasta
Begin by slicing the kielbasa into thin rounds. Set aside.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

Step 2: Brown the Kielbasa
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the kielbasa slices until golden and slightly crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, mixing well until smooth.
Add the shredded Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Sausage
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of pasta is well coated.
Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet and mix it into the pasta and sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle additional shredded Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with dried parsley or fresh basil for a pop of color.

Tips and Conclusion

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta:
Customize the Sausage: While kielbasa is classic, you can substitute it with smoked andouille sausage or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, toss in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
Reheat Like a Pro: To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a simple yet indulgent recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. Its creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the smoky kielbasa and tender pasta, creating a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal, and watch it disappear from the table in no time.

Enjoy every creamy, savory bite! 🍝✨