Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food combo! Juicy, golden-browned sausage bites are tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, then paired with silky pasta coated in a luscious parmesan cream. It’s a quick, cozy, and flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan + Pasta – Easy to make and minimal cleanup.
- Bold Flavors – Garlicky butter sauce, savory sausage, and cheesy pasta.
- Weeknight Friendly – Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Comfort Food Vibes – Creamy, cheesy, hearty, and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (or kielbasa), sliced into bite-size pieces
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Sear the Sausage – In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides (5–6 minutes).
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce – Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove sausage bites and set aside.
- Prepare Creamy Parmesan Sauce – In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra silkiness.
- Combine & Serve – Toss cooked pasta into the parmesan sauce until coated. Top with garlic butter sausage bites, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Twist – Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
- Veggie Boost – Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted broccoli.
- Cheese Upgrade – Add pecorino Romano or asiago for more depth.
- Lighter Option – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic Bread 🥖
- Roasted Green Beans or Asparagus 🌿
- A Fresh Garden Salad 🥗
- A Crisp Glass of White Wine 🍷
✨ This Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect blend of cozy comfort and bold flavor. Quick enough for busy weeknights, yet indulgent enough for a weekend dinner treat!