Description
This Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender rigatoni, smoky sausage, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, while the parsley provides a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
For the pasta and sausage:
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- 2 lbs smoked sausage, cut into ½-inch slices
- 2 lbs rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp parsley flakes (plus extra for garnish)
For the Mozzarella Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain in a colander and return the pasta to the pot off the heat.
2️⃣ Cook the sausage:
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and fry until the edges are slightly browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and set the sausage aside.
3️⃣ Prepare the cheese sauce:
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder. Once the butter is fully melted, add the flour and cook for 3 minutes, whisking continuously to form a roux.
4️⃣ Add milk and cheese:
Slowly whisk in the milk and let the mixture cook for 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the salt and paprika. Gradually add the mozzarella cheese, one handful at a time, whisking until smooth and creamy. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer gently for 2 more minutes.
5️⃣ Combine everything:
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked rigatoni in the pot. Add the cooked sausage slices and stir until everything is evenly coated.
6️⃣ Serve and garnish:
Plate the pasta and sprinkle each serving with red pepper flakes and parsley flakes. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Make it spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for extra heat.
- Customize your sausage: Swap smoked sausage for Italian sausage or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese options: For a more robust flavor, mix in some sharp cheddar or Gruyère with the mozzarella.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins