If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts cozy, flavorful, and weeknight-friendly, you’re going to fall in love with Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta. This recipe marries smoky sausage, golden-browned in garlicky butter, with perfectly al dente pasta and a shower of Parmesan and parsley. It’s a happy union of American and Italian flavors, doused in savory butter and loaded with simple, hearty ingredients. The best part? You need less than 30 minutes and just a handful of pantry staples to whip up this irresistible comfort food classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how each ingredient shines: the sausage brings deep, smoky flavor, the butter and garlic form a luscious base, pasta provides the perfect canvas, and a sprinkle of cheese and herbs ties it all together. Each element is essential for that perfect bite—simple, but absolutely crucial.
- Pasta (12 ounces): Try penne or rotini for their nooks and curves, which hold the savory sauce beautifully.
- Smoked sausage or kielbasa (1 pound): Sliced into bite-sized pieces, these bring bold, hearty flavor and a satisfying chew.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Creates a rich, velvety sauce that’s balanced by all the other flavors.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Gives the whole dish its irresistible aroma and deep, savory foundation.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle spark of heat for those who love a little kick.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Layers in classic herby notes that round out the dish beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts in and coats every bite with salty, cheesy goodness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Brightens everything and makes the plate pop with color and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors together and making them sing.
- Reserved pasta water (¼ cup, if needed): Helps adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency so everything stays silky and smooth.
How to Make Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta shape until it’s perfectly al dente, according to the package instructions. This ensures your Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta have just the right bite—don’t forget to scoop out about a quarter cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the pasta’s working its magic, heat a large skillet over medium and melt one tablespoon of butter. Add the sausage slices in a single layer, letting them brown beautifully on both sides for about 5 to 6 minutes. Browning adds depth and caramelizes the edges, giving the whole dish irresistible savoriness. Remove the sausage and set aside for now.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy), and sauté for just about a minute—enough to turn the kitchen deliciously fragrant but not so long the garlic burns. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and give everything a quick stir to toast the herbs and release their flavors.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sausage
It’s time to bring it all together. Slide the browned sausage back into the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything so the pasta gets coated in that irresistible garlicky butter. If things look a little too dry, don’t hesitate to splash in a bit of that reserved pasta water—you want everything glossy and cohesive.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle the Parmesan and parsley over the skillet, then toss again so every bite gets its fair share of cheesiness and fresh, herbal brightness. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta warm, while the cheese is still melty and the aromas are at their peak.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta
Garnishes
A final dusting of grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley are the classic finish—these not only look lovely but elevate the flavor. For an extra-special touch, a pinch of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of fruity extra-virgin olive oil works wonders.
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty enough to be the star, but it plays well with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or a platter of garlicky green beans. A warm, crusty baguette is never out of place for mopping up all that garlic butter bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta family-style on a big platter with extra parsley scattered over the top, or pile it high in individual bowls for cozy weeknight dinners. For parties, portion small bowls as appetizers, or even skewer the sausage bites atop mini pasta nests for a playful twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option or next-day lunch.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well! Pack cooled portions into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to use, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture. Note that the pasta may soften a bit, but the flavors stay vibrant.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts, stirring between rounds, or gently warm in a skillet with a splash of water or extra butter to revive the sauce. The sausage stays juicy, and the pasta soaks up even more garlicky flavor as it rests. Serve with a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley for best results!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely—try garlic herb sausage, spicy andouille, or even chicken sausage for a lighter take! Each variety brings its own character, making Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta easy to adapt to your favorite flavors.
What pasta shapes work best?
Penne, rotini, or rigatoni are all fantastic choices thanks to their ridges and holes, which catch every drop of the garlicky butter. But really, any short pasta you have on hand will work for this simple, delicious meal.
How can I make this meal vegetarian?
Substitute your favorite plant-based sausage or add extra sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. The garlic butter and herby Parmesan base still shine, giving you all the comfort of the original!
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the regular pasta for your go-to gluten-free variety, and double-check your sausage is gluten-free. Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta will be just as tasty and satisfying.
Can I add extra veggies?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red pepper, or even peas can be mixed in at the end for extra color, nutrition, and flavor depth without distracting from the star ingredients.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dinner that packs in flavor, warmth, and comfort with hardly any fuss, Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta is a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a spot in your weeknight rotation and watch it become a fast family favorite—there’s nothing quite like a plateful of buttery, garlicky goodness shared with loved ones!
Print
Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful dish, Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta is a quick and easy recipe perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. Tender pasta tossed with savory smoked sausage, garlic-infused butter, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
Smoked Sausage:
- 1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa (sliced into bite-sized pieces)
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Finishing Touches:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sear the Sausage: Brown the sausage slices in butter, then set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes, then add Italian seasoning. Return sausage to the skillet.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss cooked pasta with the sausage mixture, adding pasta water if needed. Mix in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Enjoy the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Pasta warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider using garlic herb sausage or adding sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
- This dish is ideal for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
