Name: Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz dry fettuccine pasta; ½ lb sweet Italian sausage; ½ cup butter; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ⅝ cup locatella cheese; 3 tbsp Fresh Parsley

This delightful fettuccini alfredo with sausage combines the rich, creamy texture of alfredo sauce with the savory flavors of Italian sausage. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish will elevate your pasta night to a whole new level.

Photos of Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage Recipe

One ingredient that might not be commonly found in your pantry is Locatella cheese. This cheese adds a unique, tangy flavor to the alfredo sauce. If your local supermarket doesn't have it, you can substitute it with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. Additionally, make sure to get some fresh Italian sausage for the best results.

Ingredients For Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage

Fettuccine pasta: A classic long, flat pasta that holds the creamy sauce well.

Sweet Italian sausage: Adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.

Butter: Provides a rich base for the sauce.

Heavy whipping cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy texture for the sauce.

Locatella cheese: Adds a distinct, tangy flavor to the alfredo sauce.

Fresh parsley: Adds a touch of color and fresh flavor to the finished dish.

One reader, Inez Overstreet says:

This fettuccini alfredo with sausage recipe is a delightful dish! The creamy sauce perfectly complements the savory sausage, and the fresh parsley adds a nice touch. It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Inez Overstreet

Key Techniques for Making Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage

How to cook fettuccine until al dente: Boil salted water in a large pot, add the fettuccine, and cook until it is firm to the bite, usually 8-10 minutes. How to cook sausage until brown: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into smaller pieces, until it is browned and cooked through. How to melt butter: Place butter in a medium saucepan over low heat and allow it to melt slowly without burning. How to make Alfredo sauce: Combine melted butter, heavy cream, and Locatella cheese in a saucepan, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a soft boil. How to drain pasta: Use a colander to drain the cooked fettuccine, shaking off excess water before combining with the sauce.

How To Make Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage

With a rich sauce made with Locatella cheese and cream, this fettuccini alfredo recipe is filling and savory, thanks to the added Italian sausages.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozdry fettuccine pasta
½lbsweet Italian sausage,casing removed
½cupbutter
1cupheavy whipping cream
⅝cuplocatella cheese
3tbspfresh parsley,chopped

Instructions

In a large pot with boiling salted water cook fettuccini until al dente. Drain.
In a large skillet cook sausage until brown. Drain and set aside.
Melt butter in medium saucepan over low heat. Add heavy cream and Locatella cheese and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a soft boil. If desired, add parsley.
Pour sauce over fettuccini noodles and top with the cooked sausage.
Serve immediately as sauce will separate upon cooling.

Nutrition

Calories: 1240.50kcal
Fat: 95.33g
Saturated Fat: 55.85g
Trans Fat: 2.49g
Monounsaturated Fat: 25.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.18g
Carbohydrates: 47.14g
Fiber: 1.91g
Sugar: 3.58g
Protein: 49.82g
Cholesterol: 294.17mg
Sodium: 1203.99mg
Calcium: 966.50mg
Potassium: 403.98mg
Iron: 1.82mg
Vitamin A: 797.79µg
Vitamin C: 4.26mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Fettuccini Alfredo Sauce

When cooking the fettuccine, make sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the alfredo sauce if it becomes too thick, helping to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fettuccini Alfredo

Pre-cook the sausage: Cook the sweet italian sausage ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to the dish when needed.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded locatella cheese to save time on grating.

Boil water in advance: Start boiling water for the fettuccine pasta while you prepare other ingredients to speed up the process.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the fresh parsley and measure out the butter and heavy whipping cream beforehand.

One-pot method: Use a single pot to cook the fettuccine and then the sauce to reduce cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage Recipe

dry fettuccine pasta - Substitute with dry linguine pasta: Linguine has a similar thickness and texture, making it a good alternative for holding the creamy sauce.
dry fettuccine pasta - Substitute with zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles provide a similar shape and can absorb the flavors of the sauce well.
sweet italian sausage - Substitute with spicy italian sausage: Adds a bit of heat and a different flavor profile while still maintaining the sausage texture.
sweet italian sausage - Substitute with chicken sausage: A leaner option that still provides a similar texture and flavor.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a rich flavor and is a healthier fat alternative.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative while still providing the necessary fat content.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half is lighter but still creamy enough to create a rich sauce.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut milk: For a dairy-free option, coconut milk provides a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor.
locatella cheese - Substitute with parmesan cheese: Parmesan has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative.
locatella cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano is another hard cheese with a similar salty and tangy flavor.
fresh parsley - Substitute with dried parsley: Dried parsley can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar flavor.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the dish.

Plating Ideas for an Impressive Fettuccini Alfredo Dish

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the fettuccine pasta, sweet Italian sausage, butter, heavy whipping cream, Locatella cheese, and fresh parsley are of the highest quality to enhance the dish's flavors.
Cook pasta to perfection: Boil the fettuccine until it is al dente. This ensures the pasta has the perfect texture to complement the creamy sauce.
Brown the sausage evenly: Cook the sausage in a large skillet until it is evenly browned. This adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
Create a velvety sauce: Melt the butter over low heat, then add the heavy cream and Locatella cheese. Stir frequently until the mixture reaches a soft boil, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Add fresh parsley to the sauce if desired. This adds a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Plate with precision: Pour the creamy sauce over the fettuccine noodles and top with the cooked sausage. Use tongs to twirl the pasta into neat nests on the plate.
Garnish elegantly: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley on top. This adds a touch of elegance and a pop of color.
Serve immediately: Present the dish promptly to ensure the sauce remains creamy and does not separate. The dish should be served hot to maintain its luxurious texture.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Fettuccini Alfredo

Large pot: Used to boil the fettuccine pasta until it reaches an al dente texture.
Large skillet: Utilized to cook the sweet Italian sausage until it is browned.
Medium saucepan: Employed to melt the butter and cook the sauce mixture of heavy cream and locatella cheese.
Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the sauce frequently to ensure it reaches a soft boil without burning.
Colander: Essential for draining the cooked fettuccine pasta.
Knife: Necessary for cutting the sausage into smaller pieces if needed.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the sausage.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the butter, heavy cream, and locatella cheese accurately.
Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring the fresh parsley.
Serving bowl: Ideal for mixing the fettuccine with the sauce and sausage before serving.
Tongs: Helps in mixing and serving the fettuccine alfredo with sausage.

Storing and Freezing Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage

Allow the fettuccini alfredo with sausage to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce.
For freezing, transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen fettuccini alfredo with sausage will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the pasta and sauce in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, transfer the pasta and sauce to a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed pasta and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Add a splash of cream or milk if needed to help loosen the sauce.

How To Reheat Leftover Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage

Reheat the fettuccine alfredo in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
For a quicker method, place the leftover fettuccine alfredo with sausage in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate and become greasy.
To reheat the pasta and sausage separately, warm the fettuccine alfredo using one of the above methods, and heat the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it's heated through and slightly crispy. Combine the two before serving for the best texture and flavor.
If you have access to an oven, you can reheat the fettuccine alfredo with sausage in a baking dish covered with foil. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and the edges to become crispy.
For a stovetop method that mimics the oven-baked texture, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the leftover fettuccine alfredo with sausage. Cover the skillet and let the dish warm through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove the lid for the last few minutes of cooking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the edges to become slightly crispy.

Interesting Trivia About Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage

A unique aspect of this fettuccini alfredo with sausage recipe is the use of Locatella cheese, which is a type of Pecorino Romano. This cheese adds a distinct, sharp flavor that complements the creamy alfredo sauce and savory Italian sausage.

Is Making Fettuccini Alfredo at Home Cost-Effective?

This fettuccini alfredo with sausage recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like fettuccine pasta, sweet italian sausage, butter, heavy whipping cream, and locatella cheese are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this dish provides a rich and satisfying meal at a reasonable price.

Cost-effectiveness Analysis:

Overall Verdict: 8/10
Approximate Cost: $15-20 for a household of 4 people

Is Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage Healthy or Unhealthy?

This fettuccine alfredo with sausage recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in saturated fat and calories due to the generous amounts of butter, heavy cream, and cheese used in the sauce. Additionally, the sausage adds extra fat and sodium to the meal. The refined fettuccine noodles provide carbohydrates but lack significant fiber or nutrients.

To make this recipe healthier without sacrificing too much flavor, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the fettuccine for whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream, and replace some of it with low-fat milk or vegetable broth to lower the saturated fat content
Use a smaller amount of high-quality, flavorful cheese like Parmigiano-Reggiano instead of Locatella to reduce the overall cheese quantity while maintaining taste
Opt for lean Italian chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork sausage to decrease the fat content
Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers to the dish to boost its nutritional value and provide more balanced meals
Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories or fat

Editor's Opinion on This Fettuccini Alfredo Recipe

This fettuccini alfredo with sausage recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy richness and savory sausage. The use of Locatella cheese adds a unique, sharp flavor that elevates the dish. However, consider adding garlic to the sauce for extra depth. Fresh parsley provides a nice touch of color and freshness. Ensure the sauce is served immediately to prevent separation. Overall, it's a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Enhance Your Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Garlic Bread: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with the rich scent of garlic and butter. This side dish will perfectly complement the creamy texture of your fettuccini alfredo with sausage, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.

Caesar Salad: Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing make this salad a refreshing counterpart to the rich and savory pasta. The Parmesan cheese shavings add an extra layer of indulgence.

Roasted Asparagus: Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of olive oil and sea salt. This side dish brings a touch of elegance and a burst of green to your plate, balancing the richness of the alfredo sauce.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. This vibrant and colorful salad adds a refreshing and tangy note that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Minestrone Soup: Minestrone Soup: A hearty bowl of minestrone filled with vegetables, beans, and pasta. This comforting soup serves as a warm and inviting starter, setting the stage for the main course with its rich flavors and textures.

Similar Pasta Dishes to Try If You Love Fettuccini Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo With Broccoli: Indulge in a creamy chicken alfredo dish, enhanced with fresh broccoli. The tender chicken pieces and vibrant green broccoli florets add a delightful contrast to the rich and velvety alfredo sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Shrimp Scampi Linguine: Dive into a plate of shrimp scampi linguine, where succulent shrimp are sautéed in a garlic-butter sauce with a hint of lemon. This dish is a beautiful balance of flavors, with the delicate linguine soaking up the aromatic sauce, making it a seafood lover's dream.

Creamy Spinach And Mushroom Pasta: Experience the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the vibrant taste of spinach in this creamy pasta dish. The sauce is a luscious blend of cream and cheese, enveloping the pasta in a comforting embrace. It's a vegetarian delight that even meat lovers will adore.

Sausage And Peppers Penne: Enjoy a hearty and flavorful sausage and peppers penne, where the robust flavors of Italian sausage are complemented by the sweetness of bell peppers. The penne pasta is the perfect vehicle to carry the savory sauce, making each bite a burst of Italian goodness.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta: Savor the zesty and aromatic combination of lemon and garlic in this chicken pasta dish. The tender chicken pieces are infused with the bright citrus flavor, while the garlic adds a depth of taste. It's a refreshing and satisfying meal that's perfect for any night of the week.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The filling is seasoned with fresh herbs like thyme and oregano, then baked until golden and bubbling. These bite-sized delights offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible appetizer.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers bring a burst of freshness to your table. Picture cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle them with a balsamic reduction and a touch of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a harmonious blend that is both simple and elegant, perfect for whetting your guests' appetites.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that perfectly complements a rich pasta dish like fettuccini alfredo with sausage. Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers nestled between creamy mascarpone cheese and dusted with cocoa powder. The slight bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness, making it an ideal end to a hearty meal. Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta.

Panna Cotta: Panna Cotta offers a light and creamy finish to your meal. This silky custard dessert is infused with vanilla and can be topped with a variety of fruit compotes or caramel sauce. Its delicate texture and subtle sweetness provide a sophisticated counterpoint to the robust flavors of the main course. Serve it in elegant glassware to elevate the dining experience.

Why trust this Fettuccini Alfredo With Sausage Recipe:

This fettuccini alfredo with sausage recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of alfredo sauce with the savory flavor of sweet Italian sausage. The use of locatella cheese adds a unique, tangy twist that sets it apart from traditional recipes. Fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of color, making the dish visually appealing. With simple, easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe ensures a delicious meal that can be prepared quickly, perfect for any occasion. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward preparation.

Want to share your experience making this Fettuccini Alfredo with Sausage recipe or have any tips to enhance the flavors? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use spicy Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage if you prefer.

What can I substitute for Locatella cheese?

If you can't find Locatella cheese, you can use Parmesan or Pecorino Romano as a substitute. They both work well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best to serve this dish immediately because the sauce tends to separate upon cooling. If you need to make it ahead, keep the sauce and pasta separate and combine them just before serving.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or add a small amount of grated cheese to help thicken it up.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Sure! Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas can make the dish more nutritious and add some extra flavor. Just cook them separately and mix them in with the pasta and sauce.