Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With smoky andouille sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a rich sauce, this pasta is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors – The combination of Cajun seasoning and smoked sausage creates a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients – You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Creamy Texture – The rich sauce made with heavy cream gives this pasta a luxurious feel that everyone loves.
• Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves six people, ensuring there’s plenty to go around.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, you’ll need some essential tools to make your preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet (preferably cast iron)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet – Ideal for sautéing ingredients while allowing for even heat distribution.
• Whisk – Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making the sauce.

Ingredients

Pasta and Sausage

• 12-16 ounces short cut pasta (like penne) (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 (12 oz) package smoked andouille sausage (sliced on the bias)

Vegetables

• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 bell peppers (any color, diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasonings and Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon cajun seasoning (divided)
• Pinch red pepper flakes (to taste)
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley for serving

How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook it to al dente according to the package directions.
3. When it’s done, remove a cup of the pasta water and set aside.
4. Drain the pasta but do not rinse it.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

1. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage along with 2 teaspoons of cajun seasoning.
3. Cook until crispy on both sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer sausage to a clean plate or bowl.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

1. Lower heat to medium.
2. In the same skillet, add diced onion, bell peppers, remaining cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
2. Add cooked pasta and crispy sausage; toss to coat in the sauce.
3. If needed, add up to 1 cup of reserved pasta cooking water to thin out the sauce slightly.
4. Serve right away garnished with more parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta can elevate your dining experience, making it enjoyable for family and friends. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a deliciously crunchy contrast.
• Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

Complementary Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp and tangy balance to the richness of the pasta.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy flavors.

Wine Pairing

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs excellently with the bold flavors of Cajun sausage pasta.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing cleanse.

How to Perfect Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

To achieve the best version of Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, consider these essential tips.

• Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality smoked andouille sausage for richer flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more or less Cajun seasoning according to your preference.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta cooking water aside to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor and texture in the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

A well-rounded meal includes complementary side dishes that enhance your main course. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots make a perfect addition to soak up sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green side that adds color.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob can balance out spice while being fun to eat.
4. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light contrast.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add Southern flair and crunch.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles alongside or under the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing creamy Cajun sausage pasta that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for al dente cooking.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving some pasta water can lead to a thick sauce. This starchy water helps to thin the sauce while enhancing flavor.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland pasta. Use enough Cajun seasoning and taste as you cook to adjust flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Sausage: Cheap sausage may lack depth of flavor. Choose a good quality smoked andouille sausage for the best results.
• Not Cooking in Batches: Crowding the skillet when browning sausage can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve crispness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy Cajun sausage pasta in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Make sure to cool completely before freezing for best results.

Reheating Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer pasta to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about creamy Cajun sausage pasta.

How can I customize my Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even substitute shrimp for sausage for a seafood twist.

Can I make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short cut pastas like penne or rotini work best as they hold onto the sauce well. You can also use gluten-free options if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning used. Adjust it according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cajun sausage pasta is a delightful dish that’s both rich and flavorful, perfect for dinner any night of the week. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a deliciously rich dish that combines bold flavors with a velvety sauce, making it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. With smoky andouille sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a hint of Cajun spice, this pasta comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with every bite. It’s versatile too; feel free to customize the veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your palate. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor profile, Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12–16 ounces short cut pasta (like penne)
• 1 package smoked andouille sausage (12 oz)
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 2 bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1¼ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve some cooking water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté sliced sausage with Cajun seasoning until crispy; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook diced onion and bell peppers until soft, then add minced garlic.
4. Whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste; simmer until thickened.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese, then mix in cooked pasta and sausage; adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 505
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 65mg