Smoked Sausage Alfredo Bake

This recipe had quite a few steps to it but it was definitely worth the work. It was a great cheesy main dish that my family really enjoyed, especially with the chunks of sausage thrown in.

Smoked Sausage Alfredo Bake
(Recipe found at letsdishrecipes.com via Pinterest)

16 ounces dry pasta
3 tablespoons butter
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups half and half
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese, divided
1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 (12 oz) fully cooked smoked sausage, any variety

Cook pasta according to package directions until just al dente; drain. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes. Stir in flour. Whisk in chicken broth until smooth, then stir in half and half. Add salt, pepper, cayenne, and red pepper flakes and simmer until sauce is thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella until cheeses are melted and smooth. Slice sausage into 1/4 inch pieces and add to the sauce, along with the chopped parsley and cooked pasta. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Preheat broiler. Pour the pasta mixture into a lightly greased, 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.