Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta

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Here’s a flavorful recipe for Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta, a hearty and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with smoky, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 ounces (340g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces/410g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smoky flavor)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Sauté the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine and Finish:

  1. Add the cheeses: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt into the sauce. Adjust the thickness with reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Combine pasta and sausage: Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce.

Serve:

  1. Plate the dish: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls.
  2. Garnish: Top with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Pro Tips:

  • Use smoked mozzarella for an even deeper smoky flavor.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

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