State Fair Pasta
Indulge in the bold, comforting flavors of State Fair Pasta, a crowd-pleasing dish that combines smoky, creamy, and crispy elements to perfection. This hearty recipe features tender penne pasta swirled in a rich cheddar cheese sauce spiked with smoked paprika and garlic powder for depth. Slices of browned smoked sausage add a satisfying savory kick, while crispy fried onions and fresh green onion slices provide the ultimate carnival-inspired crunch and freshness. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this easy-to-make, family-friendly meal transforms simple ingredients into a festival of flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Whether you're reminiscing about the fair or creating a new favorite comfort food, State Fair Pasta delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 10 ounces smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- 0.25 cup green onions (sliced)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned and heated through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, being careful not to let it brown.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a serving dish and garnish with crispy fried onions and sliced green onions.
Serve immediately and enjoy the State Fair-inspired flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
885 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.9 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.6 g | 143% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 137 mg | 46% | |
| Sodium | 1708 mg | 74% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.2 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.8 g | ||
| Protein | 34.0 g | 68% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 595 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 3.1 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 531 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
