Not sure where we discovered this recipe but it has quickly become one of our go to's during the week because it is so easy and usually we have everything on hand! Even my picky 2 year old will eat it, that's how good it is! Hope you enjoy it as much as we have!
What you'll need:
1 lb regular or whole grain pasta of your choice
8 oz of cream cheese
16 oz ground sausage or chicken
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4-1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Basil to taste
1/2 cup to 1 cup of cooking water from cooked pasta
Other optional add ins:
Tomato (roasted tomatoes are super yummy with it!)
Bell pepper
Mushrooms
Zucchini
Spinach
Shrimp or bacon instead of sausage would be yummy too!
How to make it:
In a large pot of boiling and salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Right before draining, reserve a cup of starchy pasta water.
Return pasta back to pot after draining.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet warm 1 tbsp of olive oil or avocado oil and gently fry the garlic (and chili flakes if desired) for 2-3 minutes. Use a low setting and don't let the garlic burn.
Add in ground sausage and chopped onion, cook on medium-low till sausage is browned.
Stir in the cream cheese and let melt. Should get creamy and mix in with sausage and onion.
Add in about 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water. Stir to combine ingredients together.
Add in the parmesan cheese.
Add in salt, pepper and basil to taste.
Stir in more cooking water as needed, till you get a smooth and saucy consistency.
Pour the cream cheese sauce over the pasta and stir together.
Serve immediately with freshly grated parmesan cheese or topped with fresh basil! Enjoy!!
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