Description
This One-Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta recipe is a simple, flavorful, and convenient meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines savory sausage, aromatic garlic, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all cooked together in a single pan for easy cleanup. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite pasta, sausage, and cheese. The Alouette garlic and herb cheese spread adds a unique and delicious twist, making this pasta a guaranteed family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 smoked sausages, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) butter
- 12 ounces pasta (any shape)
- 32 ounces low sodium chicken broth
- 4 ounces Alouette Garlic & Herb cheese spread (or similar)
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 2: Add the sliced sausage and chopped onion to the pan. Sauté until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the butter to the pan and let it melt completely.
Step 5: Add the pasta to the pan and toss until it is coated with the melted butter and sausage mixture.
Step 6: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged.
Step 7: Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 7-8 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 8: Remove the pan from the heat. Add the Alouette Garlic & Herb cheese spread (or similar) and the shredded Parmesan cheese.
Step 9: Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 10: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 11: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. The one-pan method means fewer dishes to wash, and the combination of savory sausage, fragrant garlic, and creamy cheese sauce is simply irresistible. It’s also highly adaptable, allowing you to use whatever pasta, sausage, or cheese you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot as a main course. This pasta dish pairs well with:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
- Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus
Tips:
- Use your favorite type of pasta. Penne, rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti work well in this recipe.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
- If you don’t have Alouette cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a little more chicken broth or water.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving Protein: Approximately 25-35g per serving Sodium: Approximately 800-1000mg per serving
Conclusion
This One-Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta is a delightful and convenient meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its simple preparation, flavorful ingredients, and easy cleanup make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a comforting and delicious pasta dish. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage? A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the smoked sausage with Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or any other sausage you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: What if I don’t have Alouette Garlic & Herb cheese spread? A: No problem! You can easily substitute it with cream cheese mixed with minced garlic and your favorite herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this recipe? A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables! Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or broccoli would all be great additions. Add them to the pan along with the sausage and onions.
Q4: How can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well. Mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious substitutes for Parmesan cheese.
