Description
This Savory Cajun Pasta with Sausage is a comforting dish with a kick! Sausage is paired with a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s rich, bold, and delicious. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something hearty, spicy, and satisfying!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne or your favorite pasta
- 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried thyme over the veggies. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked sausage and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lighter cream.
- Adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Keywords: Cajun pasta, sausage pasta, creamy Cajun pasta, Cajun sausage pasta, spicy pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food