If you’re craving a warm, satisfying dinner that comes together without stress, this creamy smoked sausage pasta is exactly what you need. Packed with smoky flavor, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when comfort food is calling but time is limited.
This dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients and a straightforward method—making it a go-to family dinner you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
- Quick & easy: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
- Comforting: Creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying
- Family-friendly: Mild flavors that kids and adults enjoy
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different pasta or cheese options
- Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunch the next day
This recipe uses chicken or turkey smoked sausage, keeping it completely family-safe while still delivering that signature smoky depth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken or turkey smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Seasoning
Stir in mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the sausage to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
- Add veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or peas work beautifully
- Extra cheesy: Mix in a little grated Parmesan for depth
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes
- Different pasta: Rotini or rigatoni hold the sauce just as well
Serving Ideas & Storage
Serve this creamy smoked sausage pasta with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Easy Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A cozy, family-friendly creamy smoked sausage pasta made with tender penne, browned smoked turkey/chicken sausage, and a rich mozzarella cream sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and paprika—perfect for quick weeknight comfort.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb smoked sausage (chicken or turkey), sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, 5–7 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until softened, 3–4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.
5. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in mozzarella, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until cheese melts and sauce turns smooth and creamy.
7. Return sausage to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss until pasta is fully coated in sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Pork-free option: Use smoked chicken or turkey sausage.
Lighter swap: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Cheese swap: Colby Jack or Monterey Jack works great.
Add-ins: Spinach, peas, or bell peppers are easy upgrades.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
Final Thoughts
This creamy smoked sausage pasta proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple ingredients and bold, cozy flavors, it’s a dinner that feels special without the extra effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time.