This Easy Leftover Bratwurst Pasta is a cozy dish that combines tasty bratwurst, creamy sauce, and your favorite pasta. It’s perfect for using up those extra sausages in your fridge!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up—just cook the pasta, heat the bratwurst, mix them together, and voilà! It’s a perfect dish for busy nights or lunch leftovers.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used penne for this recipe, but you can swap in any pasta you have on hand like rigatoni or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Bratwurst: Leftover bratwurst is the star! If you don’t have bratwurst, chicken or turkey sausage works well too.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream like coconut milk. It’ll change the flavor a bit, but still delicious!
Bell Peppers: If you’re not a fan, leave them out or use other veggies like zucchini or spinach. They all add nice colors and nutrients.
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Getting a creamy sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to do it! Start by heating the cream gently; don’t let it boil or it could curdle. Add the seasonings at this stage so the flavors blend nicely.
- Add the cream to the skillet with bratwurst and onions, stirring regularly.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.
- Finish with grated Parmesan for an extra creamy texture.
If the sauce seems too thick, just add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy!
Easy Leftover Bratwurst Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 3-4 leftover bratwurst sausages, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the other ingredients, then another 10 minutes to sauté and combine everything into a lovely creamy dish. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s okay if it feels just a little bit firm; you’ll be adding it to the hot sauce later!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it starts to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma!
3. Brown the Bratwurst:
Add the sliced bratwurst to the skillet. Cook them for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and lightly browned. They should smell wonderful by now!
4. Add the Bell Peppers:
If you’re using bell peppers, toss them in next. Cook for about 3 minutes, just until they start to soften a bit.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and stir in the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken slightly; just stir it occasionally to keep things smooth!
6. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring the pasta into the party! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is nicely coated with that creamy sauce. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and well-mixed in.
7. Serve It Up:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your pasta with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor, then serve it immediately. Enjoy your comforting and easy leftover bratwurst pasta! It’s a dish that’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While bratwurst is delicious, you can substitute it with any cooked sausage like Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even kielbasa. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the skillet.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free cream like coconut milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might vary slightly.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to sneak in more veggies! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would all be great additions. Just make sure to sauté them until they are tender before adding the cream.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce.
