Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne is the ultimate comfort food that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures in a quick, satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners or a casual gathering, this recipe highlights the delightful combination of garlic and parmesan, making it a crowd-pleaser. The use of Italian Turkey sausage adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and Italian Turkey sausage creates a savory sauce that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it suits any gathering.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy pasta dish, making it ideal for family meals.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, minimizing cleanup time.

 

Tools and Preparation

To create your delightful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients and developing rich flavors in sauces.
• Cooking spoon: Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 12 oz Italian Turkey sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup smooth tomato sauce (no chunks)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Salt it generously and add the penne pasta.
3. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
4. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining the penne.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian Turkey sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks until browned and fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Garlic

1. Stir in minced garlic with the Turkey sausage.
2. Cook briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Pour in smooth tomato sauce; stir to combine.
2. Allow it to warm up while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Ingredients

1. Add heavy cream and mix until smooth.
2. Stir in softened cream cheese until melted completely.

Step 6: Cheese It Up!

1. Mix in shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and glossy.

Step 7: Season & Combine

1. Season with Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes.
2. Adjust seasonings to taste before adding cooked penne.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Toss the cooked penne into the sauce until evenly coated.
2. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce consistency.

Step 9: Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

Serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete.

With a Side Salad

• Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, croutons, and a tangy dressing provide a crunchy contrast.

Accompanying Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter complements the dish’s flavor profile perfectly.
• Focaccia: Soft, herbed focaccia adds a delightful texture and absorbs the sauce beautifully.

Drink Pairings

• Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea can cleanse the palate between bites.
• Sparkling Water: The bubbles in sparkling water can enhance the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

To achieve the best version of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne, consider these tips for maximizing flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients like garlic and high-quality cheeses will significantly improve the dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your penne is cooked al dente to maintain its structure when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce thickness without losing creaminess.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Adding spinach or bell peppers can boost nutrition and add vibrant colors to the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

Complementing your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne with side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutritional value while providing a crunch.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil create a flavorful side that contrasts well with creamy pasta.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic provide freshness and acidity.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled until slightly charred offer a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the pasta.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles serve as an excellent alternative for those looking for a low-carb option.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of the Turkey sausage penne while adding sweetness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes lead to mishaps, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes and how to prevent them.

• Not salting the pasta water – This can lead to bland pasta. Always salt your boiling water generously before adding the penne for better flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta – Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce. Cook it just until it’s firm to the bite, then drain and mix with the sauce.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water – This starchy water helps to adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining the pasta for a perfect texture.
• Not allowing cheese to melt fully – This can result in a gritty sauce. Stir patiently and ensure all cheeses are melted into a smooth mixture.
• Using cold cream cheese – Cold cream cheese doesn’t mix well and can clump. Let it sit at room temperature before adding it to the sauce for a creamier texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• item Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• item Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.
• item Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Heat gently on medium-low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne so special?

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne combines rich flavors with creamy textures, making it a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Can I customize Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or substitute Turkey sausage types according to your preference for added variety.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the Turkey sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed while keeping all other ingredients as is.

What type of cheese works best?

While mozzarella and Parmesan are recommended for their melting qualities, you can also experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for different flavors.

Can I prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything except the pasta ahead of time. Just add cooked penne right before serving to keep it fresh.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Sausage Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy texture combined with garlic and cheese makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein options. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!