Indulge in the rich flavors of our smoked sausage and mozzarella pasta recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of smoky sausage, creamy mozzarella, and al dente pasta creates a mouthwatering dish that will please everyone at the table. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a satisfying taste experience that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 25g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; stir to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
8. Stir in the cubed mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the smoked sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, any type of cheese can work, such as cheddar or provolone, if mozzarella isn’t available.
Serving and Pairings
This hearty pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop. The dish can be frozen, but the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Not seasoning the sauce enough can lead to blandness.
- Using pre-cooked sausage may result in a lack of flavor.
- Forgetting to garnish can make the dish look less appealing.
- Not letting the cheese melt properly can affect texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and can be made in advance, making it perfect for meal prep.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated for lunch or dinner, or you can use them in a pasta bake by adding more cheese and baking until bubbly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it an extra kick.
Conclusion
This smoked sausage & mozzarella pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to impress your family and friends. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 1 cup smoked sausage sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese cubed
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the cubed mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
