This Creamy Sausage Alfredo is all about rich flavors and comfort. Imagine pasta coated in a velvety sauce with tasty sausage bits that make each bite feel like a hug!
I love how quick it is to whip this up on a busy night. Just cook the sausage, mix in the cream and cheese, and you’ve got a filling meal that makes everyone smile. 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: Traditional choice for Alfredo, but you can use any pasta, like penne or spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta works too!
Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage, depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage is a great substitute, and it still gives great flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, half-and-half or even whole milk can replace heavy cream, but expect a thinner texture. If you need a dairy-free option, canned coconut milk can work well too!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for smooth melting. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano offer similar results. Avoid pre-grated cheese for the best sauce!
How Do I Make My Alfredo Sauce Extra Creamy?
To get that rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, it’s important to follow some key steps. Here’s how to ensure your sauce turns out perfect every time!
- Cook on low heat: Once you add cream and cheese, keep the heat low. This helps prevent the sauce from overcooking or becoming grainy.
- Gradually add cheese: Stir in the cheese slowly and constantly to keep the sauce smooth.
- Don’t overheat: After adding cheese, avoid boiling the sauce, as high heat can cause it to separate.
- Simmer together: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes after adding the sausage to let all the flavors meld.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a deliciously creamy Alfredo that’ll impress everyone at the table! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Sausage:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning & Garnish:
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh sage leaves (about 6-8), for garnish and flavor
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 30 minutes to have a delicious creamy sausage Alfredo ready to serve! Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown The Sausage:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up into bite-sized pieces (you can make crumbles or meatballs). Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare The Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Now, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring well and scraping any tasty bits from the bottom of the pan to add flavor.
4. Thicken The Sauce:
Turn the heat down to low and let the cream mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens up just a bit. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Next, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix it nicely with the Alfredo sauce. Then, add the drained fettuccine pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in that delightful creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, tear the fresh sage leaves and sprinkle them into the pasta, giving it a gentle stir to mix in the flavor. Serve the creamy sausage Alfredo hot, and feel free to top it off with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a lovely finish!
Enjoy your homemade creamy sausage Alfredo, a comforting dish perfect for cozy dinners! Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta also works great if needed!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy sausage Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Use a plant-based cream and cheese alternative for a delicious, creamy vegetarian Alfredo!
What If My Sauce is Too Thick?
If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, simply thin it out by adding a splash of milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat it gently to ensure everything is combined smoothly!
