Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta is a decadent dish that brings rich flavors and creamy textures to your table. This delicious pasta recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. With its savory garlic butter sauce and crumbled sausage, this dish stands out for its simplicity and taste. Plus, it can easily be adapted to suit different palates!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and sausage creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the pasta.
• Versatile Dish: You can customize this fettuccine by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms or using different types of sausage.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends with its decadent flavor.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy pasta topped with cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning sausage and creating the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta while keeping it intact.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• Salt (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (either mild or spicy), casings removed and crumbled
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the crumbled sausage to the skillet.
3. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for cooking sausage, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sausage

1. Add cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss well to coat in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
3. Stir in cooked sausage; add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Enjoy your homemade Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

Serving Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal and impress your guests.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make a perfect contrast to the rich pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing touch.

Add a Side of Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is an excellent choice for scooping up that delicious sauce.
• Focaccia: This Italian flatbread, with its herby flavors, complements the dish beautifully.

Include Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a healthy crunch and complements the creaminess of the pasta.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach with garlic provides a nutritious and colorful side.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

To achieve the best Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh fettuccine and high-quality sausage for superior flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to ensure it holds up well in the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Experiment with Sausage Types: Try different types of sausage (chicken, turkey) for varied flavor profiles while keeping it delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

Complementing your Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta with the right side dishes enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese before roasting for a savory side.
2. Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Fresh diced tomatoes mixed with basil on toasted baguette slices offer a vibrant appetizer.
3. Lemon Herb Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa flavored with lemon juice and herbs provides a nutritious base.
4. Minestrone Soup: A hearty soup filled with vegetables and beans pairs well by adding warmth to your meal.
5. Grilled Zucchini Skewers: Marinated zucchini grilled to perfection gives a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the pasta.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy offer comfort alongside creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Not salting the pasta water: This can lead to bland pasta. Always add enough salt to your water before boiling.
• Overcooking the fettuccine: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente by following package instructions closely.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This starchy water helps to bind and thicken the sauce. Always reserve a cup before draining your pasta.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or butter can shock the sauce and affect its texture. Let them come to room temperature first.
• Failing to taste and adjust seasoning: Not tasting your dish can result in unbalanced flavors. Always season to taste before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Keep for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can use chicken, turkey, or beef sausage depending on your preference.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You may use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based products.

Can I make Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Sausage Fettuccine Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or trying different sausages. This recipe makes a perfect weeknight dinner that your family will love!