Indulge in a comforting bowl of smoked sausage and mozzarella pasta that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. This dish marries the smoky richness of sausage with creamy mozzarella, creating a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please your taste buds. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 30g of fat. This nutritional information is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and sauté until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sausage.
- Reduce heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious dish!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute smoked sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar or gouda if mozzarella isn’t available.
Serving and Pairings
This pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine can enhance the dining experience beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not draining the pasta properly can make the dish watery.
- Using low-quality sausage may result in a lack of flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland pasta.
- Forgetting to cover the skillet when melting cheese can cause it to harden.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
- Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds more fiber to the dish.
What can I do if I don’t like mozzarella?
You can substitute mozzarella with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pasta dish stores well and can be made in advance for easy lunches or dinners.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to give the dish an extra kick.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
Conclusion
This smoked sausage and mozzarella pasta recipe is an easy and satisfying meal that brings together savory flavors and creamy textures. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful pasta dish with family and friends!
Smoked Sausage & Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup smoked sausage sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and sauté until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sausage.
- Reduce heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious dish!
Nutrition
