Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Sausage and Broccoli Alfredo. This dish combines the savory flavor of Italian sausage, the fresh crunch of broccoli, and the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) Italian sausage, casing removed
- 300g (10.5 oz) broccoli florets
- 200g (7 oz) fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 50g (1.75 oz) unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Method of Preparation
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, sausage, and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to combine until everything is evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in your Alfredo sauce.
- Don't overcook the broccoli; it should be tender but still slightly crisp to add a nice texture to the dish.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
- Is there a dairy-free option? You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would make great additions.
Elevate your dinner game with this delightful Creamy Sausage and Broccoli Alfredo. It's a surefire way to satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite and make this dish a staple in your culinary repertoire.