Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

If you’re craving something bold, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this Cajun Sausage Pasta is a must-try! With smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, spicy cream sauce, this dish brings the warmth of Southern comfort food straight to your table. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet effortless. Perfect for cozy nights or quick family meals, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Cajun flavor: A perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy nights.
• Family favorite: Creamy pasta with sausage everyone loves.
• Versatile: Adjust spice levels or add veggies to make it your own.
• Comfort food at its best: Rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

• 12 oz smoked sausage (use beef or chicken sausage)
• 10 oz penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the sausage: Slice sausage into ¼-inch pieces. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sausage. Cook 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove from pan.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add butter to the skillet. Sauté onion and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine sausage and pasta: Add sausage back to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
6. Add cheese: Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.
• Adjust the heat: Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
• Cheese swap: Try shredded mozzarella or Asiago for a different flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage is gluten-free.
• Extra smoky flavor: Use smoked sausage and smoked paprika for that deep Cajun aroma.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Freeze: Let cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Avoid overcooking when reheating: Heat slowly to maintain pasta texture and sauce consistency.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Side salad: Pair with a fresh Caesar or garden salad to balance the richness.
• Bread: Serve with garlic breadsticks or crusty French bread for dipping in the sauce.
• Beverages: Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a cool mocktail complements the spice perfectly.
• For a full meal: Add roasted vegetables or corn on the cob for a Southern-inspired feast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with chicken sausage, andouille sausage, or even vegetarian sausage. Each brings its own flavor twist while keeping that Cajun-style kick.

How can I make this pasta less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also add extra cream or cheese to mellow the heat.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the sauce and pasta separately, then combine when reheating. This keeps the pasta from soaking up too much sauce.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli hold the sauce beautifully, but you can use any pasta you prefer, even fettuccine or spaghetti.

Ready to Make It?

This Cajun Sausage Pasta delivers bold Southern flavors in every bite, smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of spice. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend comfort dish, this recipe promises to impress with minimal effort.

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