Creamy Sausage Penne with Corn & Parmesan
A rich, comforting pasta recipe with juicy sausage, sweet corn, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce
This creamy sausage penne pasta is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors. Made with Italian sausage, sweet corn, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a satisfying one-pan comfort meal that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Ideal for busy weeknight dinners, family meals, or cozy weekend cooking, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple pantry ingredients.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~600 per serving
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Sausage
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Italian seasoning (optional)
For the Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
How to Make Creamy Sausage Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente.
Tip: Save 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—it helps make the sauce silky and smooth later.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
Flavor Tip: Spicy sausage adds a bold kick, while mild sausage keeps it family-friendly.
Step 3: Sauté the Corn & Garlic
In the same pan, melt the butter and add the corn kernels. Cook until lightly golden and slightly caramelized for enhanced sweetness. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Let it simmer on low heat. Add Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth, thick, and creamy.
Pro Tip: Keep heat low to prevent the cream from separating.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and sausage back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes for added flavor and heat.
Benefits of This Creamy Sausage Pasta
✔ Quick & Easy Dinner Idea – Ready in under 40 minutes
✔ High-Protein Meal – Sausage makes it filling and satisfying
✔ Family-Friendly Comfort Food – Loved by kids and adults
✔ One-Pan Sauce Method – Minimal cleanup required
✔ Balanced Flavor Profile – Creamy, savory, and slightly sweet from corn
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Use spicy Italian sausage for a bold, flavorful kick
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients
- Swap Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor
- Add diced cherry tomatoes for freshness and acidity
- Use grilled corn for a smoky, summer-style version
- Substitute penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer:
Freeze portions for up to 2 months (best without fresh garnish)
Reheating:
Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave works too, but stovetop keeps the best texture.
