Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining the smoky richness of sausage with a luscious, creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s simple yet indulgent, subtly spiced with Italian seasoning and just the right amount of heat from red pepper flakes, making it a crowd-pleaser every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this recipe. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s building the depth of flavor, giving the dish texture, or adding a pop of color that makes your plate irresistible. The beauty is in the simplicity, so let’s gather what you need.

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite shape; this pasta acts as the cozy base soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A touch of olive oil helps brown the sausage beautifully and brings a subtle fruity note.
• 1 pound smoked sausage (sliced): The star ingredient, packed with smoky, savory flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth, caramelizing slightly for extra richness.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is a must for that fragrant, mouthwatering aroma.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Creates the base for your creamy sauce with just the right amount of savory moisture.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): This turns the sauce into a velvety, dreamy coating that clings so well to the pasta.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick to keep your taste buds intrigued.
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or cooked): Sweet bursts that contrast the smoky sausage perfectly.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring everything together wonderfully.

How to Make Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Cream Cheese

First things first, take the cream cheese out of the fridge well ahead of time so it softens, making the sauce smooth and easy to stir; if you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave will work just fine. Meanwhile, boil a big pot of salted water and cook your pasta until it’s just al dente according to the package directions—this texture will hold up perfectly when tossed with the creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the sliced smoked sausage. Let the sausage brown for about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it unlocks those deep, smoky flavors and creates a bit of crispness that adds fantastic texture to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté Onion

Add your chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and continue cooking for a few more minutes. Stir occasionally until the onions soften and develop a light golden color. This process sweetens the onion and builds the foundation of flavor that will complement the cream cheese sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir it in gently, cooking for about 30 seconds. You only need a short time here because raw garlic can become bitter, but giving it a quick toast brings out its fragrant aroma and a mellow, nutty touch.

Step 5: Set Aside Sausage Mixture

Once the sausage, onions, and garlic are perfectly cooked, transfer the mixture to a plate and set it aside. This keeps it warm and frees up the skillet to prepare the creamy sauce that makes this recipe stand out.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

Reduce the skillet heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth. Add the cream cheese, cutting it into smaller pieces to melt faster, along with the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir constantly as the cream cheese melts and blends with the broth; within a few minutes, a gorgeous smooth sauce will form, rich and velvety in texture.

Step 7: Combine Sausage Mixture and Corn

Return the cooked sausage and onions to the skillet and stir them into the sauce. Add the corn, draining it if canned, and mix everything well. Let the ingredients warm through for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld and the corn to add those sweet pops in every bite.

Step 8: Adjust Sauce Consistency

If the sauce feels too thick, don’t worry—just scoop a few tablespoons of the hot pasta water before draining your pasta and stir it into the sauce. This trick is a pasta pro’s secret for a perfectly smooth and saucy dish that isn’t too heavy.

Step 9: Toss Pasta and Serve

Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are glistening and coated in that luscious cream cheese mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, then dish it up while it’s hot. I love to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a lovely green contrast (optional, but highly recommended!).

How to Serve Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe from great to memorable. Fresh parsley or basil brings brightness and a fresh herbal note to balance the richness. If you want a little extra zing, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds fantastic layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty pasta with something light and crisp like a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to add texture contrast and freshness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also wonderful companions, soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting guests, serve this dish family-style in a large, rustic skillet or a vibrant casserole dish to keep things casual and inviting. For a fun twist, serve it over cauliflower rice or spiralized veggies to lighten up the meal without sacrificing flavor. Either way, this pasta is sure to impress visually and tastefully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from this Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect lunch option for the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, but keep in mind creamy sauces sometimes change texture when frozen and reheated. If you want to freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving works too—just cover it to keep moisture in and stir every 30 seconds until it’s heated through and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage for the Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage packs a bold and smoky flavor, you can use kielbasa, andouille, or even spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste preferences. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese before cooking?

Softening the cream cheese makes melting it into a smooth, creamy sauce much easier and prevents lumps. Taking it out early or microwaving briefly will ensure your sauce has the perfect texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the smoked sausage with a smoked tempeh, plant-based sausage, or even hearty mushrooms. The cream cheese sauce remains just as delicious.

What pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Any pasta shape that holds sauce well will work great, such as penne, rotini, or elbows. The sauce sticks beautifully to ridged or tubular pasta making every bite flavorful.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without being overpowering. You can always omit them or adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance. The dish is flavorful even without the spice.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe is a perfect blend of comforting and satisfying, built from simple ingredients with incredible flavors. Whether you’re cooking a cozy dinner for your family or impressing friends with a fuss-free crowd-pleaser, this dish always delivers. I really hope you give it a try and fall in love with it just like I have!

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