One-Skillet Buffalo Sausage Pasta: A Spicy, Creamy Dinner Delight

If you’re craving a quick, comforting, and flavor-packed meal, then look no further than this One-Skillet Buffalo Sausage Pasta recipe. Combining the fiery zest of buffalo sauce, hearty Italian sausage, creamy mozzarella, and tender pasta, this dish is an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners. Plus, the magic of making it all in one skillet means fewer dishes and more time enjoying your meal!

In this detailed guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making the perfect buffalo sausage pasta. From tips on ingredient selection and cooking techniques to mouthwatering variations and expert advice, this article is designed to be your ultimate resource.

Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Buffalo Sausage Pasta Recipe

Buffalo sauce and pasta might seem like an unexpected duo, but the spicy tanginess combined with the creaminess of cheese and sausage creates a symphony of flavors that’s impossible to resist. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation:

• One-skillet simplicity: Cooking everything in one pan saves time and cleanup.
• Spicy and creamy balance: Buffalo sauce gives a kick, tempered perfectly by heavy cream and mozzarella.
• Protein-packed: Italian sausage adds robust flavor and satisfying protein.
• Comfort food with a twist: It’s familiar pasta comfort but elevated with bold buffalo flavor.
• Customizable: Easily tweak spice levels, add veggies, or swap pasta types.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You Need for the Best Buffalo Sausage Pasta

Let’s take a closer look at the essential ingredients that make this recipe shine, plus some expert tips to get the best results.

Pasta (Penne or Rigatoni) — 12 oz

Choose pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni because their tubes hold onto the creamy buffalo sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You can also use ziti or rigatoni alternatives, but avoid thin spaghetti since it doesn’t trap sauce as well.

Spicy Italian Sausage — 1 lb, Casings Removed

The spicy Italian sausage is the heart of this recipe. Its bold, garlicky seasoning combined with a bit of heat complements the buffalo sauce perfectly. Removing the casings helps it crumble and cook evenly, creating delicious, bite-sized pieces.

Onion and Garlic — 1 small onion (diced) and 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Sautéing onion and garlic adds a savory foundation that balances the acidity and spice from the buffalo sauce.

Buffalo Sauce — 1 cup

For that signature buffalo flavor, opt for a good-quality buffalo wing sauce. You can adjust the quantity based on your heat preference—add more for extra spice or less if you want it milder.

Chicken Broth — 2 cups

Chicken broth is the cooking liquid that tenderizes the pasta and infuses additional flavor. Low-sodium broth is preferable so you can control the saltiness.

Heavy Cream — 1/2 cup

The heavy cream adds richness and smoothness, mellowing out the heat of the buffalo sauce while creating that irresistible creamy texture.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese — 1 cup

Mozzarella melts beautifully into the sauce, lending gooey, cheesy goodness. For added flavor, consider mixing in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Chopped Green Onions (Optional) — 1/4 cup

Fresh green onions sprinkled on top provide a nice pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Salt, Pepper, and Olive Oil

Season to taste and use olive oil for sautéing the sausage and aromatics.

Step-By-Step Instructions for the Perfect Buffalo Sausage Pasta

Making this buffalo sausage pasta is straightforward. Here’s a detailed walkthrough for cooking it to perfection.

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and has a nice sear, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Pro tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Sausage

Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Pour in 1 cup buffalo sauce, 2 cups chicken broth, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Cook

Add the 12 oz uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Stir to combine and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. This should take about 12-15 minutes.

Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until melted and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top the pasta with chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Best One-Skillet Buffalo Sausage Pasta

• Choose the right sausage: Opt for high-quality spicy Italian sausage for robust flavor.
• Adjust the heat: Customize the buffalo sauce amount based on your spice tolerance.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Stir occasionally and check tenderness to avoid mushy noodles.
• Add veggies: For added nutrition, toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the aromatics.
• Cheese variations: Mix mozzarella with cream cheese or Parmesan for extra creaminess and depth.

Variations and Add-Ons to Customize Your Buffalo Sausage Pasta

One of the best things about this buffalo sausage pasta recipe is its flexibility. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

Make It Less Spicy

If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the buffalo sauce and substitute with more chicken broth or use a mild wing sauce.

Add Vegetables

Boost the nutrition and color by adding diced bell peppers, chopped kale, or mushrooms when sautéing onions and garlic.

Swap the Protein

Try substituting spicy sausage with ground chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives.

Use Different Cheeses

For a sharper bite, mix in cheddar or pepper jack cheese along with mozzarella.

Spice It Up More

If you want extra heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the aromatics.

Nutritional Benefits of Buffalo Sausage Pasta

While this dish is definitely an indulgent comfort food, it does pack some nutritional value:

• Protein: The sausage provides a hearty amount of protein to keep you full.
• Calcium: Cheese and cream contribute to your daily calcium intake.
• Vitamins: Adding veggies boosts vitamins A, C, and K.
• Healthy fats: Olive oil and heavy cream supply essential fats.

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream and cheese and increase vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Buffalo Sausage Pasta

1. Not removing sausage casings: Leaving casings on makes it hard to break up the meat evenly.
2. Using the wrong pasta: Thin pasta won’t absorb sauce as well as penne or rigatoni.
3. Overcooking pasta: Check frequently and remove from heat when al dente.
4. Skipping seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper after cheese is melted.
5. Not stirring enough: Pasta can stick to the skillet and burn without occasional stirring.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage alternatives work well.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: You can prepare the sausage and sauce ahead of time, but cook the pasta fresh for best texture.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used. Adjust the amount for mild or extra heat.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, but creamy pasta dishes sometimes change texture when frozen. Freeze in airtight containers and thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Mozzarella melts nicely, but you can mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for varied flavor.

Conclusion

This One-Skillet Buffalo Sausage Pasta recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves bold flavors, creamy textures, and the convenience of a one-pan meal. With its perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce, hearty sausage, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and casual dinners alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish is easy to master and endlessly satisfying. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and dive into this deliciously creamy, spicy pasta adventure tonight!

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