Creamy Italian Sausage Fettuccine Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Italian Sausage Fettuccine Pasta is a decadent, flavor-packed dish that combines savory sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, velvety cream sauce. Infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. Quick to make yet elegant enough for guests, this pasta is pure creamy indulgence in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

fettuccine pastaItalian sausagered onion or shallotgarlic clovesolive oilheavy creamParmesan cheesegrated mozzarella (optional)Italian seasoningcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)saltblack pepperfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté chopped onion until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Add mozzarella if using, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Return the sausage to the skillet and mix to combine.

Toss in cooked fettuccine, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.

Cook for 2–3 minutes until pasta is fully coated and the sauce thickens slightly.

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use spicy sausage for added heat and depth.

Swap fettuccine with penne, rigatoni, or tagliatelle.

Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Replace cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Top with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, slice or crumble and heat it through before adding to the sauce.

What kind of cream works best?

Heavy cream gives the richest texture, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. Adjust to your taste.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, but pasta is best served fresh. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Do I have to use fettuccine?

No, any pasta shape you like will work.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage is gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers work well.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Simmer gently and avoid high heat. Add pasta water gradually to emulsify the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

What cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and adds bold flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Sausage Fettuccine Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that brings bold flavors and comforting texture to your plate. Simple, fast, and absolutely delicious, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a weeknight staple and a go-to for impressing guests alike. One creamy forkful and you’ll be hooked.

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