Description
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines smoky sausage, vibrant Cajun spices, and a rich creamy sauce tossed with penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it brings a delicious Cajun-American flair with a hearty, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta & Sauce
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Protein & Vegetables
- 14 ounces smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Brown Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add Cajun seasoning, diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook and stir for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their flavors.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to blend all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the creamy sauce, enriching its flavor and texture.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the penne evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta for a fresh herbal finish. Serve the dish warm and enjoy a delicious, spicy, and creamy Cajun sausage pasta meal.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning according to your preference.
- For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Add fresh spinach or other vegetables to increase nutritional value and variety.
- This recipe reheats well, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
