This Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! You’ll enjoy the smoky flavor from the sausage mixed with rich cream cheese, making every bite delightful.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that comes together in no time? I whip this up quickly after a long day. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a fresh salad for a complete dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini for this recipe because it holds the sauce really well. However, feel free to substitute with any spiral pasta like fusilli or even penne if you prefer. Using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is also a great option!
Smoked Sausage: The smoked sausage adds a fantastic flavor, but if you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey sausage works well as a substitute. Vegetarian sausage or even cooked chicken can also be used if you want to skip red meat.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives that creamy texture, but if you’re dairy-free, you can try using a plant-based cream cheese. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work, but it will change the flavor a bit as it’s tangier.
Fresh Spinach: If you don’t have spinach on hand, feel free to replace it with kale or Swiss chard. You can even use frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth?
The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s essential to get it just right. Start by making sure your cream cheese is softened. This helps it blend easily into the sauce. Here’s how to achieve that smooth consistency:
- Once the onions and peppers are sautéed, lower the heat before adding cream cheese. This prevents it from burning and allows it to melt evenly.
- Add the heavy cream gradually. Stir continuously to prevent lumps. If it gets too thick, a splash of pasta water can help thin it out.
- Keep stirring until the sauce is creamy and fully combined before adding the spinach and sausage. This ensures the flavors meld perfectly.
With these tips in mind, you’ll create a rich, delicious sauce every time!
How to Make Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or your favorite spiral pasta)
For the Sausage & Vegetables:
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
To Season:
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, plus about 15 minutes for assembly and simmering. It’s a quick and delightful dish perfect for weeknights or any time you crave a warm pasta meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Browning the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook until browned on both sides, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant—this will enhance the flavors!
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir until it starts melting, making sure it combines well. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to create a smooth creamy sauce.
5. Adding Cheese and Spinach:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and everything is well incorporated. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
6. Bringing It All Together:
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix it all together. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serving:
Your Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta is now ready to enjoy! Serve it hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that added flair. Dig in and savor every bite!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Smoked Sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great healthier option that will still provide delicious flavor. You can use any variety of turkey sausage that suits your taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for texture. This will keep the dish hearty without the meat. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to your preference.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.
