Can I use dried chilies instead of fresh?

For this recipe, fresh garlic is more important than chilies. But if you want some heat, you can use crushed dried chilies or red pepper flakes in the garlic butter—just a pinch for a kick!

Is this sauce gluten-free?

The sauce itself is gluten-free! Just make sure to use gluten-free pasta and check your sausage ingredients , as some may contain gluten fillers.

Can I can this sauce for long-term storage?

This cream-based sauce is not suitable for canning . Dairy doesn’t preserve well and can spoil easily. It’s best made fresh or stored short-term in the fridge.

What’s the best chili variety for this sauce?

This recipe doesn’t call for traditional chilies, but if you want to spice it up, red pepper flakes or dried Calabrian chilies add a great subtle heat without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger skillet or pot. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

What dishes go well with sweet chili sauce?

Not super relevant for this recipe, but if you're serving a variety, sweet chili sauce pairs better with egg rolls, grilled chicken, or shrimp —not creamy pasta.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white?

This recipe doesn’t use sugar, but if you’re tweaking or adding a touch of sweetness to balance spice, brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel flavor. Go light—about ½ tsp if needed.

How do I thicken it more?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. Or add a bit more grated Parmesan, or a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra thickness.

Can I make this sugar-free?

This recipe doesn’t include sugar, so you’re already good to go! Just double-check your sausage and cream labels if you're avoiding hidden sugars.

Is it vegan-friendly?

As written, no—it contains sausage, butter, cream, and cheese. But you can make it vegan by using plant-based sausage , vegan butter , coconut cream , and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative .

Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb smoked sausage (sliced into bite-size rounds)
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work great)
1 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss in sausage slices and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and slightly crispy. Add Italian seasoning and stir.
In another pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with salt & pepper.
Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
Plate the pasta, top with garlic butter sausage bites, and garnish with parsley or chili flakes if desired.

Notes

Add Veggies! Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli with the pasta for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Feeling spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little kick!

Author: Clara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 620
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 840mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: sausage pasta, creamy parmesan, garlic butter, quick dinner, one pan recipe