Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites:
- 1 lb smoked or Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed for consistency)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sausage Bites
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta & Make Parmesan Sauce
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same pan used for the sausage (wipe clean if necessary), melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Step 3: Assemble & Serve
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter sausage bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish!
This dish is rich, garlicky, and packed with delicious sausage flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner. Let me know if you give it a try! 
