Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe | Easy & Delicious

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a hearty skillet dish to bring the whole family to the table. The Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet combines smoked beef sausage with a trio of cheeses and a creamy sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Let’s delve into how this dish can be a game-changer in your meal planning.

Ingredients and Quantities

To prepare the Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Smoked Beef Sausage: 12 ounces, sliced
  • Pasta: 8 ounces, penne or rotini
  • Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
  • Chicken Broth: 1 1/2 cups
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup
  • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Onion: 1 small, chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The smoked sausage offers a robust taste that complements the smooth, rich creaminess of the mixed cheeses.

Directions and Preparation Method

Preparing the Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet involves a few simple steps that result in a flavorful and satisfying dish:

  1. Pasta Preparation:
    • Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Sautéing Sausage:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides. This not only cooks the sausage but also enhances its smoky flavor.
    • Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Building the Sauce:
    • Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they are soft and fragrant, forming the flavor base of the sauce.
    • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce begins to thicken.
  4. Combining Ingredients:
    • Return the cooked pasta and browned sausage to the skillet, stirring to ensure they are well coated with the sauce.
    • Season the dish with paprika, salt, and pepper, adjusting these to suit your taste preferences.
    • Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is creamy.
  5. Final Simmer:
    • Allow the entire dish to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
    • If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that warms the heart and soothes the soul. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to include different types of pasta or cheeses based on your preference or what you have on hand. With a total preparation and cooking time of about 30 minutes, this skillet dish stands out for its ease and quickness, alongside its delicious taste. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this pasta skillet promises to deliver satisfaction and delight to your dining table. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete, scrumptious meal.

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