Smoked sausage cheddar pasta is a comforting dish that blends the richness of cheese and the smokiness of sausage into a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. The ingredients come together swiftly, making it an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy a delicious meal without spending all evening in the kitchen. Plus, if you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you might also love trying out creamy spicy cajun sausage pasta for a different flavor twist.
Why cook this at home
This recipe shines because it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to whip up a comforting meal in no time. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families. The versatility of smoked sausage allows for easy substitutions, making it adaptable for different taste preferences.
Steps at a glance
- Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente.
- Sauté sliced sausage until browned.
- Cook onion and garlic until tender.
- Create a creamy cheese sauce with milk and spices.
- Combine pasta, broccoli, sausage, and sauce.
Gather these items
- 16 ounces bowtie pasta
- 14 ounces beef sausage
- 1 onion (sliced thin)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 3 cups milk
- 10 ounces cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 packages broccoli florets (9.5 ounce each, frozen or fresh)
How to prepare it
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook to al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Add broccoli florets to the pasta water or use a steamer insert over the boiling pasta water, cooking until heated through.
- Slice the beef sausage into 1/4 inch rounds. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the sausage until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter in the skillet, then whisk in flour, cooking for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, whisking to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and the browned sausage. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the cheesy sauce.
What to serve it with
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a touch of freshness, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. If looking for more options, check out one-pot creamy spicy cajun sausage pasta for an easy-to-follow recipe that complements this one nicely.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It will be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When reheating, ensure you warm it to at least 165°F for food safety. Remember to follow the 2-hour rule for food safety by not leaving perishable food out at room temperature.
Tips for best results
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
- Use fresh broccoli if you can, as it adds a nice crunch to the dish.
- Feel free to substitute the cheese with any of your favorites, such as Monterey Jack or gouda, for unique flavor profiles.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling some breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Creative twists
- Add diced bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
- Swap the bowtie pasta for another shape like penne or rotini.
- Incorporate some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect blend.
What are some common questions?
How long does it take to make smoked sausage cheddar pasta?
The preparation and cooking time for this dish is about 30-40 minutes in total.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chicken or turkey sausage as a lighter alternative.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegetarian version.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and make sure to drain it right away when it’s done.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and sausage ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.
This recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is versatile and easy to prepare. Don’t hesitate to give it a try, adapt it to your taste, and share your results with friends and family. Embrace the creativity that comes with cooking and enjoy the flavors of this easy smoked sausage cheddar pasta!
PrintSmoked Sausage Cheddar Pasta
A comforting pasta dish that combines smoked sausage and creamy cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 16 ounces bowtie pasta
- 14 ounces beef sausage
- 1 onion (sliced thin)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 3 cups milk
- 10 ounces cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 packages broccoli florets (9.5 ounce each, frozen or fresh)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook to al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Add broccoli florets to the pasta water or use a steamer insert over the boiling pasta water, cooking until heated through.
- Slice the beef sausage into 1/4 inch rounds. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the sausage until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter in the skillet, then whisk in flour, cooking for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, whisking to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and the browned sausage. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the cheesy sauce.
Notes
For best results, do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Feel free to substitute the cheese with different varieties for unique flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
