Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine with Broccoli and Sausage?
It is a rich and indulgent pasta dish featuring fettuccine, tender broccoli, and your choice of turkey Italian sausage, chicken, or shrimp in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce.
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This dish is designed for quick weeknight meals and comes together in just under 30 minutes.
What proteins can I use in this dish?
You can use 1/2 lb of turkey Italian sausage, shrimp, or chicken.
Do I need to boil the fettuccine in a separate pot?
No, the uncooked fettuccine is added directly to the skillet with the chicken broth and milk to cook.
How much broccoli is required?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of fresh broccoli florets.
What kind of broth is best for the sauce?
You should use 3 cups of chicken broth as the liquid base for the sauce.
When should I add the broccoli to the pasta?
Add the broccoli florets after the pasta has simmered for 15 minutes, then continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
What should I do if the sauce becomes too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, simply add more milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 4 cloves of minced garlic for the aromatic base.
Are the tomatoes fresh or canned?
The recipe uses 8 ounces of canned diced tomatoes that have been drained.
How much butter is used to sauté the garlic?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
Can I use shrimp instead of sausage?
Yes, succulent shrimp is a recommended alternative to turkey Italian sausage.
How long do I sauté the mushrooms?
Sauté the sliced mushrooms and garlic for about 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant.
What type of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, adjusted to taste.
How much milk is included in the sauce?
The sauce requires 1 1/2 cups of milk.
What is the recommended garnish?
Garnish the dish with 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley leaves.
How much fettuccine is used?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of uncooked fettuccine pasta.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of fresh sliced mushrooms.
Is the turkey Italian sausage cooked before adding it back to the pasta?
Yes, brown the sausage in the skillet first until cooked through, then set it aside until the end.
Can I use chicken instead of sausage?
Yes, cooked chicken is a perfectly suitable protein choice for this recipe.
Is this a family-friendly meal?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleaser and perfect for family dinners.
What temperature should I use to brown the meat?
Brown the protein over medium-high heat.
How long does the pasta simmer initially?
The fettuccine should simmer for about 15 minutes before adding the broccoli.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifically calls for unsalted butter.
Is the pepper fresh or pre-ground?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
Do I add the parmesan cheese at the beginning?
No, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese at the end after the broccoli has finished simmering.
When do I return the meat to the skillet?
Fold in the browned sausage, chicken, or shrimp as the final step before serving.
What kind of consistency should the sauce have?
The sauce should be creamy and luscious, coating the pasta and vegetables evenly.
Can this be served immediately?
Yes, it is best served immediately while hot and creamy.