It almost feels like cheating calling Sausage, Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Pasta a “recipe” because it’s so simple and straightforward. Regardless, it goes from fridge to table in 20 minutes or less making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Cooked pasta is tossed with browned Italian sweet sausage, sauted brussels sprouts, an offensive amount of garlic and freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus tons of cracked black pepper. It’s kind of a mash up of cacio e pepe, this dish, and this dish. Simple, familiar flavors in a hearty and filling dish. I totally dig it. The best part of this recipe is that there’s zero prep work involved so you can keep your knife and cutting board put away. The couple of times I tested this dish I found myself standing in the kitchen tapping my foot waiting for the water to boil for the pastsa because there’s nothing to slice and dice — including the brussels sprouts because I used a bag of pre-shredded from the store. Easy! I use gluten-free spaghetti but you can use whatever pasta you love. I also think this dish would be fantastic with zucchini noodles but first read the tips in this post to make sure you don’t end up with soggy zoodles.
How to Make this Recipe
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. In the meantime, add 8oz sweet Italian sausage to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage, breaking it into big pieces as it cooks – I prefer bigger pieces of sausage in the final dish, vs breaking it up finely as it cooks. Scoop the sausage onto a plate and set aside, then drop the pasta into the water to cook until it’s just a touch under al dente. Just a heads up, don’t drain the pasta cooking water after it’s done cooking – you’ll use it to create a thin sauce for the dish!
Next heat 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in the skillet then add a 9oz bag pre-shredded brussels sprouts, 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (or more or less,) and salt and pepper. Saute until the sprouts are golden brown and tender, 3-4 minutes, then add 3 cloves pressed or minced garlic and saute for 1 more minute.
Last step is to use tongs to transfer the cooked pasta from the pot to the skillet, then add the cooked sausage, a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese. Add enough pasta cooking water to the skillet to melt the parmesan cheese and create a light, thin sauce.
Add a TON of freshly cracked black pepper then taste and add more salt if necessary, too. Swirl onto plates then top with more parmesan cheese before digging in. I hope you love this hearty, quick and easy weeknight pasta dish — enjoy!
Like this recipe? Share it with friends!
