Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for dinner that combines true weeknight ease with the kind of flavor that gets everyone hovering over seconds, Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta is that dish. Think plump, savory sausage nestled in velvety Alfredo sauce, all tossed together with tender pasta—it’s a little bit rustic, a little bit creamy, and flat-out impossible not to love.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a short list of real, flavorful ingredients to bring Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta to life. Each component plays an essential part: the kielbasa infuses smoky depth, Parmesan brings that signature Alfredo richness, and just a few pantry staples unite everything flawlessly in the pan.

• Kielbasa (2 packs, 12 oz each): This fully-cooked smoked sausage gives the dish its signature savory kick; slice it into rounds for perfect bites.
• Pasta (10 oz): Cellentani is a fun, twisty shape that catches lots of sauce, but penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper (½ teaspoon each): The simplest way to lift and balance all the flavors.
• Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon each): These herbs and spices bring warmth and depth to the creamy Alfredo base.
• Butter (1 stick/½ cup): Ensures rich flavor and a silky-smooth foundation for the sauce.
• Minced Garlic (2 tablespoons): Sautéing fresh garlic awakens the sauce—don’t skip!
• Heavy Cream (1 ¼ cups): The key for that thick, luxurious Alfredo, perfectly coating every noodle.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 ¼ cups, shredded): Salty and nutty, Parmesan melts right in for irresistible flavor and texture.
• Dried Parsley: A sprinkle at the end adds a pop of color and an herbal finish.

Variations

One of the best parts about Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta? It’s ridiculously easy to adapt, whether you’re working with different ingredients or personalizing it for your crew. Don’t be shy—this recipe welcomes your creativity!

• Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, bell peppers, or peas for extra color, crunch, and nutrition.
• Try Different Sausages: Swap kielbasa for andouille, chicken sausage, or even a spicy Italian for a new flavor twist.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat Parmesan for a slightly lighter, but still creamy, meal.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or stir in some Cajun seasoning for a bolder kick.

How to Make Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your pasta until just al dente—following the package directions for best results. Once done, drain (but don’t rinse!) the noodles; the bit of starch left helps the Alfredo sauce stick beautifully later.

Step 2: Brown the Kielbasa

Slice the kielbasa into rounds, then add them to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté until the edges are golden brown and a bit crisp—those caramelized bits add tons of smoky flavor. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside for now, but don’t wipe out the skillet; those tasty browned bits are flavor gold!

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the stick of butter over medium heat and stir in the minced garlic until just fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, then add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything bubble gently, melting into a luscious sauce.

Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan

Slowly sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce starts to thicken. This is the magic moment: your whole kitchen will smell incredible, and the sauce will become glossy and rich.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, and gently toss to coat every piece. Return the browned kielbasa to the pan, stir until well combined, and let everything warm through for a minute or two. Check the sauce consistency—if it’s a bit too thick, just add a spoonful of pasta water to loosen things up.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Spoon your steaming Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta into bowls, then shower it with extra Parmesan and a good sprinkle of dried parsley. Dive in while everything’s creamy, garlicky, and piping hot!

How to Serve Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta

Garnishes

There’s nothing like a final flourish—try showering your Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta liberally with extra Parmesan cheese and a generous pinch of dried or fresh parsley. For a little zing, you can even add finely chopped chives or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. These finishing touches make the dish pop and look instantly more inviting.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with crisp Caesar salad, garlicky roasted broccoli, or buttery garlic bread to help soak up every last drop of Alfredo sauce. For a lighter side, baby greens with a lemony vinaigrette are perfect alongside the richness of smoked sausage and Parmesan.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, swirl nests of pasta on a platter and top with artfully arranged sausage rounds and chopped herbs—it’s a showstopper! For a cozy family meal, serve straight from the skillet at the table, letting everyone spoon up their perfect portion. You can even use small ramekins for individual servings at a party, each topped with a melting Parmesan crisp.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta actually makes delicious leftovers! Transfer any extra portions to an airtight container and stash in the fridge—they’ll stay tasty for 3–4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch irresistible.

Freezing

While Alfredo sauce can sometimes separate when frozen, you can absolutely freeze this dish if you make a little extra. Cool the pasta completely, store it in freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to two months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess.

Reheating

Rewarm leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of cream, milk, or even water to bring the sauce back to life. Stir often and heat just until warmed through for best texture. A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan perks everything up!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta enough—especially on those nights you need a meal guaranteed to make everyone happy, without a ton of fuss. It’s creamy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new household favorite. Enjoy every bite!

Print