Cajun cooking is from Louisiana , and it’s known for big , bold flavors that hit you right away . It blends French , Spanish , African , and Native American foods into dishes that fill you up and make you smile . Creamy pasta dishes are special because they mix rich sauce with tasty sausage and veggies for a cozy meal any day .
Introduction
The Creamy Cajun Sausage Pаsta Recipe shows how spicy Cajun seasoning can work with smooth cream sauce . You’ll use slices of sаusage , bell pepper , onion , and garlic , all cooked with cream and cheese . When you stir them into penne , each bite brings you close to a Louisiana dinner table . It’s great for a quick weeknight supper or when friends drop by unexpectedly .
Ingredients List
To make this dish , grab these іngredients:
- Sausage: 1 pound sliced Cajun sausage (Andouille or your choice)
- Pasta: 8 ounces penne pаsta (or any pasta you like)
- Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper , diced
- 1 onion , diced
- 2 garlic cloves , minced
- Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Spices:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Garnish: Fresh parsley , chopped
Directions
Follow these steps to whip up dinner :
- Prep: Cut the veggies and slice the sausage into bite-size pieces so they cook evenly .
- Brown Sausage: Heat oil in a big skillet over medium . Add sausage slices and cook 5–7 minutes until they’re brown and a bit crispy . Take them out and leave the fat in the pan .
- Cook Veggies: In the same skillet , toss in onion and pepper . Sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft . Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute .
- Boil Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil . Cook the penne pаsta per the box directions until al dente . Drain it and set aside .
- Make Sauce: Pour the cream into the skillet with veggies . Add Cajun seasoning and stir . Let it simmer 3–5 minutes until it thickens a bit .
- Mix Pasta: Put the cooked pasta back into the skillet . Stir so the sauce coats every piece .
- Finish: Sprinkle Parmesan in and mix . Taste and add salt , pepper , or hot sauce if you want more heat .
- Serve: Top with parsley and dish it out hot . Enjoy !
Tips for Success
- Pick Good Sausage: Andouille is classic , but any smoked Cajun sаusage works .
- Try Lighter Cream: Half-and-half or even milk can give a lighter sauce if you prefer .
- Add Veggies: Spinach , zucchini , or mushrooms make it more colorful and healthy .
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook just until it’s firm to the bite so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce .
- Save Leftovers: Store in the fridge up to 3 days . Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk .
Nutritional Information
- Calories: About 550 per serving
- Fat: 35 g
- Carbs: 45 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Healthy Swaps: Try whole wheat pаsta or plant-based cream for a lighter option .
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetarian: Swap sausage for mushrooms or a plant-based alternative .
- Extra Heat: Add jalapeño or red pepper flakes .
- Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower pаsta .
Pairing Suggestions
- Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir balances the creaminess .
- Sides: Garlic bread or a simple green salad with vinaigrette go well .
- Dessert: Finish with a light sorbet or fresh fruit .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Cajun seasoning made of?
It’s usually a mix of paprika , cayenne , garlic powder , onion powder , oregano , and thyme . You can mix your own to get the taste just right .
Can I use other meat?
Sure ! Chicken , shrimp , or turkey work too . Just adjust cook times so they’re done .
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Warm on the stove and add a bit of cream or milk if it’s too thick .
Is this gluten-free?
Yes . Use a gluten-free pаsta made from rice , quinoa , or another kind .
How spicy is it?
You decide . Add more Cajun seasoning or hot sauce if you like things fiery .
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is comfort food at its best . It brings together zesty flavors and rich sauce for a meal that’s easy but feels special . Try it tonight and taste a bit of Louisiana in every bite .
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 colander
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage spicy or mild, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream for a lighter version, consider substituting half and half
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers mixed colors, diced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated, for garnish
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
