Easy Sausage Asparagus Pasta Recipe
This Easy Sausage Asparagus Pasta is a creamy, flavorful 30-minute dinner made with savory Italian sausage, crisp-tender asparagus, garlic, Parmesan, and pasta tossed in a silky sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy, casings removed
- 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (6–8 minutes).
- If needed, add olive oil. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes, until bright green and crisp-tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water gradually until sauce reaches desired consistency.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs. Serve warm.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use Italian sausage (mild or spicy) for bold flavor and richness.
- Trim asparagus ends and cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well to hold the sauce.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes for extra depth and gentle heat.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Finish with freshly grated parmesan for a creamy, savory touch.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 670 kcal |Carbohydrates: 58 g |
Fiber: 4 g |
Sugars: 5 g |
Protein: 28 g |
Fat: 36 g |
Saturated Fat: 14 g |
Cholesterol: 85 mg |
Sodium: 880 mg |
Potassium: 540 mg |
Calcium: 190 mg |
Iron: 3.1 mg