Easy Smoky Sausage & Creamy Marinara Pasta

This delicious and easy Smoky Sausage & Creamy Marinara Pasta dinner can be made in under 30 minutes. Perfect weeknight dinner.

Quick and easy weeknight dinners are a necessity! This dinner is one of my favorite creamy and easy meals. Pasta, smoked sausage, Boursin cheese, and marinara sauce make this a tasty and simple meal to make.

I make this dinner multiple times a month and my whole family loves it. Including my picky 6 year old. Always a win in my book, this easy dinner is one of our favorites.

FAQ for Smoky Sausage & Creamy Marinara Pasta

Q1: What ingredients do I need to make this dish?
A1: Here’s what you’ll need:

• Marinara sauce
• Dried pasta (any type you prefer)
• Smoked sausage
• Dried basil
• Boursin cheese (herb-flavored is ideal)
• Heavy cream
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Q2: How do I prepare the smoked sausage?
A2: Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces and sauté in a skillet until browned and slightly crispy. This enhances the smoky flavor and adds texture.

Q3: How do I incorporate Boursin cheese into the sauce?
A3: Once the marinara sauce is heated in a skillet, stir in the Boursin cheese. It will melt into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture.

Q4: How long should I cook the pasta?
A4: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, typically 8-12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta. Drain and set aside.

Q5: When should I add the dried basil?
A5: Add the dried basil during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce, allowing the herbs to release their flavors without becoming overpowering.

Q6: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A6: Yes! You can make the sauce and sausage mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to adjust the consistency before serving with freshly cooked pasta.

Q7: Can I substitute the heavy cream?
A7: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Q8: How do I season this dish properly?
A8: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste after all the ingredients are combined. Smoked sausage adds some saltiness, so taste the sauce first before adding additional salt.

Q9: What pasta works best with this sauce?
A9: Any dried pasta will work well, but short varieties like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great for holding onto the creamy marinara sauce.

Q10: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A10: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q11: How do I serve this dish?
A11: Serve it hot, topped with additional fresh basil, Parmesan, or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

What is the difference between Marinara and Spaghetti sauce?

Marinara and spaghetti sauce may seem similar, but they differ in ingredients, flavor, and preparation. Marinara is a simpler, quicker sauce made primarily from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil or oregano. It has a fresh, slightly tangy flavor and a thinner consistency, often used as a base for pasta, pizza, or dipping. In contrast, spaghetti sauce (or tomato sauce) is heartier and more complex. It can include meat, vegetables, and additional seasonings, and is simmered for a longer time, creating a richer, thicker sauce with a deeper flavor. While marinara focuses on light, fresh tomato taste, spaghetti sauce is more robust and filling, often used in more substantial pasta dishes.

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