Name: Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Recipe for Cozy Evenings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Pasta (Orecchiette recommended) (Alternatively, rigatoni or penne work well.); 1 lb Italian Sausage (Choose sweet or spicy.); 1 medium White Onion (Yellow onion is a substitute.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh is best.); 2 tbsp Butter; 2 tbsp Flour (Omit for a healthier option.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Use half-and-half for a lighter version.); 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water (Add gradually for desired sauce consistency.); 2 medium Granny Smith Apples (Honeycrisp apples can also be used.); 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (Dried herbs can be substituted.); 1 tbsp Oregano (Dried herbs can be substituted.); 1 tbsp Sage (Dried herbs can be substituted.); 8 oz Smoked Gouda Cheese (Other melting cheeses like Fontina work too.)

As autumn’s chill sets in, I find myself craving the rich, warming scents of savory dishes bubbling away in the kitchen. Enter my Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta recipe—a delightful 30-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet feels like a cozy hug after a long day. With the balance of sweet Granny Smith apples and hearty Italian sausage, this dish not only comforts the soul but also brings a unique twist to your usual pasta fare. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can whip this up, making it an ideal choice for those looking to trade fast food for homemade goodness. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful adventure? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why is this pasta recipe a must-try?

Comforting and Cozy: This Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta embraces you with rich, warming flavors, perfect for chilly evenings.

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a gourmet meal that feels indulgent yet requires minimal effort.

Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet apples and savory sausage creates a deliciously unique twist that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Versatile Ingredient Options: Feel free to customize with different types of Italian sausage or cheeses to suit your personal palate, just like in my Pumpkin Feta Pasta.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ditch the fast food and bring back the joy of cooked meals with this delightful recipe!

Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Ingredients

• Get ready to savor every bite!

For the Pasta

Pasta (Orecchiette recommended) – Holds sauce beautifully; alternatives like rigatoni or penne work just as well.

For the Sauce

Italian Sausage – Adds a savory protein punch; opt for sweet or spicy variants based on preference.
White Onion – Provides sweet depth; yellow onion is a great substitute if needed.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; fresh is best, but powdered is a fine backup.
Butter – Richens the sauce and caramelizes the apples beautifully.
Flour – Acts as a thickener; can be omitted for a healthier option if desired.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth and moisture to the sauce; vegetable broth suits a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream – Infuses creaminess into the sauce; consider half-and-half for a lighter version.
Reserved Pasta Water – Helps achieve desired sauce consistency; add gradually to avoid thinning too much.

For the Flavors

Granny Smith Apples – Offers a sweet-tart contrast; honeycrisp apples can also shine here.
Fresh Thyme, Oregano, Sage – Adds herbal freshness; dried herbs are a strong substitute, just use less.
Smoked Gouda Cheese – Imparts a rich, smoky flavor; other melting cheeses like Fontina work too.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pasta, using orecchiette for optimal sauce-holding capabilities. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as this will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease, leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add diced white onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. Introduce minced garlic to the mix and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This combination brings depth to your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta and sets a savory base for the sauce.

Step 4: Add Apples and Butter
Next, stir in the chopped Granny Smith apples and butter. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly while the butter melts. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist this blend of flavors as you prepare the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate the Flour and Broth
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture. Stir to coat the apples and onions, which will help to thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the skillet. This adds incredible flavor to your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta.

Step 6: Simmer with Herbs and Cream
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, then add the remaining chicken broth alongside the fresh thyme, oregano, and sage. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich, velvety texture for your sauce.

Step 7: Return the Sausage and Adjust Consistency
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and let it simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. If the sauce appears too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water, mixing thoroughly until you reach your desired consistency—aiming for a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta.

Step 8: Melt the Gouda and Combine
Stir in the smoked gouda cheese and mix until it melts completely into the sauce. This step adds a delightful smokiness to your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta. If the sauce still feels thick, let it simmer a little longer, while ensuring the flavors remain balanced and heavenly.

Step 9: Toss with Pasta and Season
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. For an extra touch, it’s lovely to garnish with additional thyme and gouda before serving, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.

Storage Tips for Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Serving: Enjoy this Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta warm for a cozy meal reminiscent of freshly made dishes.

Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Variations

Feel free to adjust and make this dish your own with delightful twists that suit your taste buds!

Apple Alternatives: Swap Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter profile. The changes bring a lovely new flavor to your pasta experience.
Cheese Swaps: Experiment with sharper cheddar or creamy Fontina for different flavor notes. Each option can turn this dish into a whole new comfort food favorite.
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless twist, substitute Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. This gives a hearty texture while keeping it fulfilling.
Herb Infusions: Try adding fresh rosemary or basil for a fragrant kick. These herbs can elevate the dish, creating an aromatic masterpiece.
Pumpkin Goodness: Add a scoop of pumpkin puree for an extra creamy texture and seasonal flavor, reminiscent of my cozy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta.
Heat It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a spicy pop. A little heat can beautifully contrast the sweetness of the apples.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans right before serving for added texture and a satisfying crunch.
Sauce Thickness: For a lighter sauce, replace half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This results in a creamy yet tangy finish that’s simply delightful!

Let your creativity shine as you customize this Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta recipe for your next cozy meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions and apples up to 24 hours in advance, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the sausage and prepare the sauce (without the pasta) up to 3 days ahead of time. Just refrigerate the cooled sauce in a sealed container. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply reheat the sauce on the stove, toss in the cooked pasta, and stir in the smoked gouda until melted. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch every time!

What to Serve with Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta?

Elevate your dining experience with these delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this comforting dish.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy exterior and soft interior of garlic bread make it irresistible, perfect for scooping up that luscious creamy sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a vibrant contrast, cutting through the richness of the pasta with each bite. Enjoy the crunch of fresh greens against the tender pasta!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy edges enhance the savory notes of the dish while offering a delightful textural contrast. Plus, they’re an excellent way to incorporate more veggies!
Savory Herb Roasted Potatoes: These rosemary-infused potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the smoky gouda flavors in the pasta, creating a well-rounded plate of comfort.
Hot Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider resonates with your dish’s flavors, adding seasonal warmth and sweetness for a cozy drink pairing that enhances the meal’s autumn spirit.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooeyness and nostalgic appeal will comfort the soul after enjoying this creamy pasta masterpiece.

Whichever side you choose, these pairings promise to make your meal unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta

Apple Selection: Choose Granny Smith apples for a sweet-tart balance. Avoid overly sweet apples that might dominate the dish’s flavor profile.
Sauce Consistency: Reserve enough pasta water to adjust sauce thickness. Begin by adding small amounts to prevent making the sauce too watery.
Sauté Time: Ensure you sauté the onions and garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness; cooking too long can diminish their flavor.
Cheese Melting: Stir in the smoked gouda at the end to get that lovely creamy texture. If the cheese doesn’t melt completely, allow it to simmer a bit longer.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to choose between sweet, mild, or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. Just keep in mind that it influences the overall flavor of the Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta recipe.
Herb Measurements: If using dried herbs instead of fresh, reduce the quantity to half, since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for this pasta?
Absolutely, I recommend using Granny Smith apples for your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta. They bring a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that complements the savory sausage beautifully. If you prefer a slightly different flavor, Honeycrisp apples also work well, offering a sweeter taste but still holding their shape during cooking.

How should I store leftovers of this pasta?
Leftovers can be conveniently stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the container tightly to keep the flavors protected. When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat to preserve the creamy texture—adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce is a helpful tip!

Can I freeze the Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta?
Definitely! For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the pasta in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it out and seal tightly. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of liquid as needed for the best consistency.

What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has become too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring to combine until you achieve your desired consistency. This will help create that luscious, creamy texture that makes the Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta so delightful.

Is there a vegetarian option I can make with this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. If you opt for mushrooms, I suggest using a mix of cremini and shiitake to add depth. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, and you’ll still enjoy the comforting essence of this recipe without using meat.

Can I customize the sausage used in this pasta?
Very much so! The beauty of this Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta is its versatility. You can choose from sweet, mild, or spicy Italian sausage based on your heat preference. Each type will impart a unique flavor profile to the dish, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!