Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction:

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a deliciously savory dish that combines juicy sausage bites coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a creamy, cheesy pasta. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The garlic butter adds a burst of flavor to the sausage, while the creamy Parmesan pasta complements the richness of the dish.

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:

• 4 sausage links (Italian sausage or your choice of sausage), sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage Bites: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sausage pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. If desired, add the red pepper flakes for a little heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce the liquid. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sausage: Add the cooked pasta and sausage bites back into the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta and sausage are well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the garlic butter sausage bites and creamy Parmesan pasta in bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil, if desired, and enjoy!

Tips:

• Extra Creamy: For an even creamier pasta, you can add more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to give the dish more heat or add a drizzle of hot sauce to the finished dish.
• Vegetarian Option: You can replace the sausage with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.

History of the Dish:

While the combination of sausage and pasta is a classic in Italian cuisine, the addition of garlic butter and Parmesan sauce brings a rich, indulgent twist to this dish. Sausage and pasta are often paired in hearty meals due to their satisfying textures and complementary flavors. Garlic butter, a favorite in many European dishes, elevates this recipe with its rich flavor, making it a popular choice for family meals and dinner parties.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

Conclusion:

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances rich, savory sausage with creamy pasta. The garlic butter sauce adds depth of flavor, and the Parmesan cheese makes the sauce incredibly creamy and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible flavors and simple preparation.