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