Creamy Pasta with Sausage (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites

01 - 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
02 - 3 tbsp butter
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 tbsp olive oil
05 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
06 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
07 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

08 - 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
09 - 2 tbsp butter
10 - 1 ½ cups heavy cream
11 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1 tsp garlic powder
13 - ½ tsp black pepper
14 - Salt to taste
15 - Fresh parsley (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Return the sausage to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter until coated. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
04 - In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until fully coated.
06 - Serve the garlic butter sausage bites over the creamy Parmesan pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

# Notes:

01 - For extra richness, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sausage while cooking
02 - You can substitute the sausage with chicken or shrimp for a different variation
03 - The dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables