Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. This smoked sausage & mozzarella pasta is a comforting dish that combines savory smoked sausage with rich, creamy mozzarella. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The balance of flavors and textures will entice your taste buds, making this dish a new favorite at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This is based on standard ingredient quantities.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and sauté until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and tomatoes.
- Mix in the mozzarella cheese and basil, tossing everything together.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Alternative Ingredients
If you can’t find smoked sausage, feel free to use turkey sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can also substitute mozzarella with provolone or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors well.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and flavor.
- Always reserve pasta water before draining for flexibility in sauce consistency.
- Adjust seasoning gradually to avoid over-salting.
- Don’t skip the basil; it adds a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add some chopped onions or bell peppers with the sausage.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.
- Make it a one-pan meal by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
- Consider adding a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works well, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just store it in portions and reheat when ready to eat, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add more vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or increasing the amount of red pepper flakes. You could also use spicy sausage for an extra kick.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This pasta pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea complements it nicely.
Conclusion
The smoked sausage & mozzarella pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines smoky flavors with creamy cheese. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its rich taste will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delightful meal any day of the week!
Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup smoked sausage sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and sauté until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and tomatoes.
- Mix in the mozzarella cheese and basil, tossing everything together.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
