When life gives you leftover sausage, turn it into a hearty, flavorful pasta dish! This smoked sausage pasta recipe is the perfect way to combine creamy, cheesy comfort with the smoky, spicy kick of Truboy BBQ’s Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages and Classic Sausages. Whether it’s a quick family dinner or a dish to impress, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and loaded with bold flavors. Let’s dive into a pasta night you’ll never forget.
Gather Your Flavor Powerhouses: Ingredients for Smoked Sausage Pasta
Before you start, gather these ingredients to build a pasta dish that showcases the smoky goodness of leftover sausage.
Main Ingredients
- Truboy BBQ Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages: 2 sausages, sliced
- Truboy BBQ Classic Sausages: 2 sausages, sliced
- Pasta: 12 oz (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Chicken broth: 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Spinach: 2 cups, fresh
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Seasoning & Garnish
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: for garnish
Pasta Perfection: Step-by-Step Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta Base
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the Sausages: Slice your leftover smoked sausage, including both the Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages and Classic Sausages. The mix of smoky, spicy, and classic flavors will give your pasta a unique taste.
Step 2: Sizzling the Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Sausages: Add the sliced smoked sausages to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they’re browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let them soften and release their juices, adding a burst of sweetness to the dish.
Step 3: Crafting the Creamy, Cheesy Sauce
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. This step incorporates the smoky flavors left behind by the sausage.
- Add Heavy Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Season the Sauce: Add paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Let the sauce thicken and become velvety smooth.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
- Return the Sausage: Add the cooked leftover smoked sausage back into the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce.
- Mix in the Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the luscious sauce.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the pasta. This adds a pop of color and nutrients to the dish.
Serving Up Smoky Perfection
- Plate the Pasta: Serve the smoked sausage pasta hot, straight from the skillet.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness and color.
- Optional Toppings: Add extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing flourish.
Tips and Variations for Smoky Pasta Success
Extra Smoky Goodness
- Add a touch of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to enhance the flavor of the smoked sausage.
- Incorporate additional leftover sausage from your last BBQ session, such as brisket or ribs, for an even richer dish.
Boost the Heat
If you love spice, don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes or jalapeños. They pair perfectly with the Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages.
Make It Veggie-Friendly
Substitute the leftover smoked sausage with smoked tofu or plant-based sausage to create a vegetarian version that still delivers on smoky flavor.
Why Truboy BBQ's Smoked Sausages Are the Perfect Pasta Partner
The magic of this pasta recipe lies in the smoked sausage, and Truboy BBQ’s Smoked Texas Sausages deliver every time. Their robust smoky flavor, balanced with a hint of jalapeno spice and cheesy goodness, elevates a simple dish into something extraordinary. Using leftover sausage from Truboy BBQ not only prevents waste but also adds depth and complexity to your meals.
The Classic Sausages provide a traditional smoky base, while the Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages bring a spicy, savory twist that complements the creamy pasta perfectly. Whether you’re repurposing leftover sausage or planning ahead for a smoky pasta night, Truboy BBQ’s sausages ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
So the next time you’re looking for a way to use up leftover smoked sausage, try this recipe. With the right blend of creamy comfort and Texas BBQ smokiness, this smoked sausage pasta will become a household favorite.