Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, you’ve come to the right place! Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta: A Simple & Delicious Recipe is one of those dishes that warms your heart and fills your belly all at once. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you need something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish so special is the rich tomato sauce combined with the savory flavor of Italian sausage and the irresistible aroma of garlic butter. It’s easy to prepare, and I promise it will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: This dish takes just over an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy nights.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike love this hearty pasta, so it’s great for feeding a crowd.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, sausage, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s sure to please.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—no complicated items here! Gather them up, and you’ll be ready to whip up your Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta in no time.

For the Sauce

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (8 cloves total)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry apple vinegar (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is how flexible it is. You can make it your own by trying out different ingredients or flavors! Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: If sausage isn’t your thing, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers when sautéing the onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end for a richer sauce.

How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned—this should take about 8-10 minutes. It’s important to get that nice golden color on the sausage because this adds depth of flavor to our sauce. After browning, remove the sausage from the pan but leave all those tasty drippings behind!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add chopped onion. Cook it until softened—about 5 minutes. Onions are sweet when cooked down like this! Then add minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant. This step fills your kitchen with such an enticing aroma!

Step 3: Build Your Sauce

Now it’s time to pour in those crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce along with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple vinegar (if using). Stir everything together well! Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a simmer; then reduce heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer it’ll taste! Stir in that cooked sausage after 30 minutes; this lets those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While that delicious sauce simmers away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your favorite pasta shape and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold that helps bind everything together later!

Step 5: Create Garlic Butter Bliss

In a separate skillet over medium heat, melt butter then add minced garlic again. Cook for just about a minute until fragrant—garlic butter is pure magic!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta directly into the garlic butter skillet. Toss it well so every piece gets coated in that buttery goodness. If it’s looking too thick, don’t hesitate to add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Now gently fold in that luscious sausage sauce until everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle in chopped parsley right before serving!

Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top and maybe an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want more heat. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with these simple tips, you can elevate your Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta to the next level!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor and a pop of color. If available, consider using fresh basil or even thyme to enhance the dish’s aroma and freshness.
• Adjust the spice level: Customize the heat by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes. Start with a small pinch if you’re unsure, and gradually add more to suit your taste.
• Reserve pasta water wisely: The starchy water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta. Don’t forget this step; it can make a significant difference in achieving a creamy texture!
• Experiment with sausage varieties: While Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each type will impart a unique flavor profile.
• Add vegetables for nutrition: Sneak in some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini when cooking the sauce for added nutrients and color.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Presenting your Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta beautifully can make mealtime even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Freshly chopped parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: This classic topping provides a creamy finish that complements the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
• Extra red pepper flakes: For those who like it spicy, offering additional red pepper flakes at the table allows everyone to customize their heat level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens tossed in a simple vinaigrette brings freshness and balance to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli add color and nutritional value while complementing the pasta flavors beautifully.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for an elegant side that pairs well with garlic and butter notes in the pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store it and keep your delicious creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Place the pasta in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover sauce, store it separately to prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers since the sauce may expand when frozen.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
• For frozen pasta, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta with other types of sausage?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses Italian sausage, you can experiment with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before adding it to your pasta.

How can I customize my Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms while cooking. You can also adjust the spices according to your taste preferences!

Can I make Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta without butter?

Yes! You can substitute olive oil or another plant-based oil if you want a dairy-free version. The dish will still be flavorful and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Share your creations with friends and family—everyone deserves a taste of this deliciousness. Happy cooking!