Name: Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta: Your New Fall Favorite!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Sweet or Mild Italian Sausage (Add spicy if you like a kick); 1 cup Chopped White Onion (Brings sweetness and complexity); 2 cloves Grated or Pressed Garlic (Fresh is best); 2 medium Granny Smith Apples (Offers sweet and tart balance); 2 tbsp Butter (Substitute with olive oil for lighter); 2 tbsp Flour (Omit for a thinner sauce); 2 cups Chicken Broth (Low-sodium is a healthier choice); 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (Dried thyme works if fresh isn’t available); 1 tbsp Fresh Oregano (Dried can be used too); 1 tbsp Fresh Sage (Swap for dried if in a pinch); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Mix half with milk for lighter version); 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water (Vital for adjusting sauce thickness); 1 cup Smoked Gouda Cheese (Feel free to try other melty cheeses); to taste Sea Salt (Essential seasoning); to taste Pepper (Essential seasoning); 1 lb Pasta of Choice (Orecchiette is recommended)

There’s nothing like the crisp essence of autumn to inspire hearty cooking, and today I’m thrilled to share a recipe that embraces the season’s spirit: Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish that combines savory Italian sausage with the delightful sweetness of Granny Smith apples, all enveloped in a smoky, creamy Gouda sauce. It’s the perfect fall favorite for those cozy evenings, serving as both a quick dinner solution and a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Plus, the adaptability of this recipe means you can experiment with different types of sausage or pasta to personalize it even further. Ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into this deliciously warming bowl of comfort!

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Why is this recipe a must-try?

30-Minute Magic: In just half an hour, you can serve a gorgeously comforting dish that feels indulgent.

Flavor Explosion: The delightful mix of smoky Gouda and tart Granny Smith apples adds a unique twist to traditional pasta.

Crowd-Pleasing Ease: Perfect for any occasion, this recipe delights both family and guests alike with its rich, hearty flavors.

Versatile Options: Customize it with your favorite sausage or pasta shape, making it adaptable to your taste. Check out my Cinnamon Swirl Apple for dessert inspiration!

Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples means you can whip this up anytime without a special shopping trip.

Comforting Bliss: Each bite feels like a warm hug, making this dish your go-to for cozy fall evenings.

Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Ingredients

• Get ready for a flavor-packed fall dish!

For the Sauce

Sweet or Mild Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth; go for spicy if you like a kick!
Chopped White Onion – Brings sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
Grated or Pressed Garlic – Elevates the dish with aromatic flavors; fresh is best.
Granny Smith Apples – Offers that perfect balance of sweet and tart; holds up well when cooked.
Butter – Provides rich flavor for sautéing; substitute with olive oil for a lighter touch.
Flour – Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection; omit for a thinner option.
Chicken Broth – Liquid base for the sauce; low-sodium is a healthier choice.
Fresh Thyme – Introduces an earthy flavor; dried thyme works if fresh isn’t available.
Fresh Oregano – Complements the thyme with a hint of bitterness; dried can be used too.
Fresh Sage – Brings unique autumn flavors to the dish; swap for dried if in a pinch.
Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious creaminess; mix half with milk for a lighter version.
Reserved Pasta Water – Vital for adjusting sauce thickness; don’t skip this step!
Smoked Gouda Cheese – Delivers richness and depth; feel free to try other melty cheeses too.
Sea Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste.

For the Pasta

Pasta of Choice (1 lb) – Orecchiette is recommended, but any pasta shape you adore will work.

This Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta combines simple ingredients to create a delightful dish that will impress anyone at your table. Get ready to savor every comforting bite!

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

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice (orecchiette is ideal) and cook it according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Just before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water to use later in the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the sweet or mild Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break apart the sausage, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage, allowing it to drain on paper towels to soak up any excess grease, and set it aside for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, keeping the flavorful drippings, add chopped white onions. Sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes or until they become translucent and start to caramelize, stirring often. This step builds a sweet base for your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta, so keep a close eye on them.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Apples
Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, toss in the grated garlic and diced Granny Smith apples. Stir in a tablespoon of butter and let it melt, combining everything for about 2-3 minutes. The apples should become slightly tender, while their tartness balances the sweetness of the onions, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour and Deglaze
Sprinkle flour over the apple and onion mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and lift up any flavorful bits. Let it bubble and thicken for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously until the flour is fully integrated.

Step 6: Simmer with Herbs
To the sauce, add the remaining chicken broth along with fresh thyme, oregano, and sage. Bring the mixture to a low simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and watch as the sauce slightly thickens, ready to envelop the pasta later.

Step 7: Combine and Create Creaminess
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and pour in the heavy cream along with 1 cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together to create a rich, creamy sauce that clings to the sausage and herbs, adjusting consistency as needed by adding more reserved pasta water if desired.

Step 8: Melt the Gouda and Toss
Finally, mix in the smoked Gouda cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce creating a velvety coating. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce mixture, tossing gently to ensure every pasta piece is bathed in the creamy goodness. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add more Gouda on top for an extra indulgent finish.

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Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun and flavorful twists!

Sausage Swap: Try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter yet equally delicious alternative. This will reduce the overall richness while keeping the dish hearty.
Vegetarian Delight: Go meatless by using mushrooms or plant-based sausage. The earthy, umami flavors add depth while keeping it vibrant and satisfying!
Cheesy Change: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina to totally reinvent the flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own uniqueness to the creamy sauce!
Apple Alternatives: If Granny Smith apples are unavailable, opt for Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a similar taste that still balances sweetness and tartness.
Pasta Variety: Switch up the pasta shape to rigatoni, penne, or cavatappi for a different eating experience. It’s all about finding the perfect vessel for that creamy sauce!
Herb Infusion: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or toss in fresh basil or parsley for a fresh lift. This can add a vibrant flavor and color to your dish!
Creamy Light: For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This keeps it creamy but adds a tangy twist.
Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple and Gouda.

With such simple adaptations, you’ll discover a world of flavor possibilities! And if you want more cozy meal inspirations, check out my delicious Cinnamon Applesauce Bread for dessert suggestions. Enjoy cooking!

What to Serve with Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta

Looking to craft the perfect meal around this delightful dish? Let’s explore some wonderful pairings that will elevate your dining experience!

Garlic Bread: The crisp, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the creaminess of the pasta, creating a delightful flavor balance.
Simple Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding a nice contrast and vibrancy to your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty, caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the dish, adding texture and a seasonal touch.
Apple Crisp: This dessert not only harmonizes with the apple theme but also satisfies your sweet tooth with its warm, comforting flavors.
Cranberry Juice Spritzer: A fizzy, tart drink that enhances the dish’s flavors and provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Sautéed Green Beans: Bright and crunchy, these green beans offer a fresh and crisp element that beautifully complements the hearty pasta.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, including extra Gouda, will harmonize with the smoky flavors of the dish, encouraging hearty conversation and sharing.
Pumpkin Soup: As a cozy starter, this soup embraces the fall spirit and pairs wonderfully with the textures of the creamy pasta, setting a warm and inviting tone for your meal.
Honeycrisp Apples: Fresh slices can be a light and crunchy end note—great to cleanse the palate after the richness of the main dish.

With these delightful pairings, your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta dinner transforms into a memorable culinary celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save valuable time! You can prep the sauce components—browning the sausage, sautéing the onions, and mixing in the garlic and apples—up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the mixture on low, then add the remaining broth, heavy cream, and Gouda cheese, stirring until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results without the last-minute rush, making dinner a delightful and stress-free affair!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir well to restore creaminess to your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta.

Room Temperature: Leftovers should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Expert Tips for Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta

Pasta Perfection: Always reserve that cup of pasta water before draining; it’s the secret to the sauce’s divine texture.
Sauce Control: If your sauce turns too runny, simmer on low for a few extra minutes. This will thicken it up beautifully.
Flour Matters: For a thicker, creamier sauce, don’t hesitate to add flour gradually. Adjust based on your preference for the creamy texture.
Fresh is Best: Using fresh herbs like thyme and sage boosts the flavor immensely, making your Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta truly shine.
Experiment Freely: Feel free to swap out the sausage type or use different pasta shapes. Personalizing your meal keeps it exciting!

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Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe Granny Smith apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing Granny Smith apples, look for ones that are firm and shiny with vibrant green skin. Avoid apples with dark spots or bruises, as these could indicate overripeness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta?
Very good question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and quality. Just remember to reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to ensure the sauce doesn’t thicken too much.

Can I freeze Creamy Apple Gouda Sausage Pasta?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring there’s no air trapped inside. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove with a little added water or broth until warmed through.

My sauce turned out too runny; what can I do?
Don’t worry! If your sauce is too runny, simmer it on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes to help thicken it up. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. If you need to further thicken it quickly, you can create a slurry with a bit of flour and water, then gradually stir it into the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for those with food allergies?
A great consideration! This recipe contains ingredients that some may be sensitive to, like dairy and gluten. You can make substitutions for dietary restrictions. For example, use gluten-free pasta and replace heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative to adapt it to your needs. Always check the labels of your ingredients for hidden allergens.

What other sausage types can I use?
Absolutely, the more the merrier! You can swap the Italian sausage for chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter alternative. For vegetarian options, try using mushrooms or a plant-based sausage. Each variation brings a different flavor, so feel free to get creative!