
This German Spaghetti Recipe brings together the comfort of pasta and the robust flavors of bratwurst and knackwurst in a rich creamy sauce. It is just the thing for when you want something hearty but still quick enough for a weeknight. Each forkful delivers that classic, savory sausage punch with velvety noodles and a hint of fresh herbs. It has become a favorite on cozy nights when I want a taste of something special without a lot of fuss.
I whipped this up the first time as a quick answer to leftover sausages and since then it has become our go to for chilly evenings in. The blend of silky sauce and the smoky sausages always brings everyone back to the table for seconds.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: Eight ounces of classic spaghetti pasta provides chewy texture Choose a high quality dried Italian pasta for the best bite
- Bratwurst sausages: Sliced bratwurst brings smokiness and a juicy texture Opt for fresh sausages from the butcher if possible
- Knackwurst sausages: A different but complementary sausage that adds depth and a mild garlic kick Try to buy from a German deli for authentic flavor
- Sweet onion: Finely chopped gives a caramel note and mild sweetness Look for firm onions with tight skin
- Garlic: Minced for fragrant sharpness Crush cloves for maximum aroma
- Heavy cream: This makes the sauce luscious and rich Use real heavy cream for the creamiest sauce
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated adds saltiness and deep umami Grate just before using for best melt
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley gives brightness and a fresh green finish Flat leaf parsley has more flavor
- Salt and pepper: To bring everything together Season to taste but do not skip this step
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the aromatics:
- Chop your sweet onion finely and mince the garlic to release essential flavors
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Drop in the spaghetti and stir Cook until the pasta is al dente with a bit of firmness Bite test a strand after about 8 minutes Reserve a half cup of the pasta water then drain
- Sauté the sausages:
- In a wide skillet over medium heat lay out the sliced bratwurst and knackwurst Let them brown on both sides turning after about three minutes per side for deep flavor
- Add the onions:
- Slide in the chopped onion and cook gently stirring until translucent and soft This step brings out the onion’s sweetness which balances the richness of the sausages
- Build the sauce:
- Add in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant about one minute Stir constantly to keep it from browning Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer Stir often as the sauce starts to thicken
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add your drained spaghetti right into the skillet Use tongs to toss everything together Add a splash of reserved pasta water as needed so the sauce evenly coats the noodles
- Finish and serve:
- Turn off the heat Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley Mix until the cheese melts and the herbs are bright green Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed Serve right away for best texture

This dish is special to me because the blend of German sausages and creamy sauce reminds me of family dinners where everyone fought for the last scoop. Parsley is my favorite here for that burst of color and garden fresh taste on top.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well if placed in an airtight container in the fridge for three days The cream sauce may thicken but it loosens right back up when reheated with a little splash of milk or water Warm gently in a skillet to avoid separating the sauce
Ingredient Substitutions
If knackwurst is hard to find you can use any mild smoked sausage or double the bratwurst For a lighter sauce try half and half instead of heavy cream Fresh oregano or chives make a nice substitute for parsley if you want a different herbal note

Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta with a simple green salad and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal A sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving gives a beautiful savory finish For a bigger feast this pairs perfectly with a crisp German lager
Cultural and Historical Notes
This recipe takes inspiration from both classic German sausage pairings and Italian pasta nights It brings together flavors from both cultures in one easy and comforting meal Dishes like this are popular in Germany especially in home kitchens where Italian pasta merges with local sausage traditions
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of sausages work best in this dish?
Traditional German-style sausages like bratwurst and knackwurst bring authentic, savory flavor and hearty texture. Other mild, cooked sausages can also be used as a substitute.
- → How do you ensure spaghetti is perfectly al dente?
Boil the pasta in salted water, checking for tenderness a minute before the package time. Drain when it yields gently to the bite for optimal texture.
- → Does the sauce need to be thickened further?
The creamy sauce thickens naturally with simmering and Parmesan. Add reserved pasta water gradually until it coats the noodles luxuriously.
- → Can fresh herbs be substituted?
Fresh parsley brightens the dish, but you can use chives or basil for a different herbal note. Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, though flavor is milder.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
This meal is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sausage and sauce components in advance. Reheat gently and toss with cooked pasta just before serving.