Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Creamy fettuccine tossed with savory smoked sausage and a rich, cheesy Parmesan Alfredo sauce. This easy comfort-food dinner comes together quickly and is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Brown the Smoked Sausage
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let the cream boil rapidly.
4. Add the Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Everything
Return the smoked sausage to the skillet and add the cooked fettuccine. Toss gently until the pasta is completely coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce and the sausage is evenly distributed.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes over low heat to allow all the flavors to come together.
6. Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta with:
- Garlic bread
- A fresh green salad
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted asparagus
- Sautéed spinach
Tips for the Best Alfredo Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better when tossed with the sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and makes it silky.
- Choose your favorite smoked sausage, such as beef, turkey, or kielbasa-style sausage.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a little Cajun seasoning.
- Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
4–6 servings