Spicy Smoked Sausage Alfredo Bake

This Spicy Smoked Sausage Alfredo Bake combines smoky sausage with a rich Alfredo sauce and pasta, topped with melted cheese for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (preferably spicy or andouille sausage)
• 12 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sausage:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and cook the chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, and bring to a simmer.
4. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.

Assemble the Bake:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and sausage Alfredo sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy!

• This hearty and flavorful **Spicy Smoked Sausage Alfredo Bake** is perfect for a comforting dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.