Cajun Sausage Pasta

Name: Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 12 oz smoked Cajun sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup bell peppers (mix of red and green), chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil

By Jana Vergara

March 16, 2025

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The aroma of Cajun Sausage Pasta wafts through your kitchen, making your taste buds do an excited little jig. Imagine tender pasta mingling with juicy sausage and a medley of vibrant peppers and spices, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exhilarating. This isn’t just food; it’s a flavor-packed adventure waiting to happen.

As I reminisce about the first time I whipped up this dish at a family gathering, laughter filled the air as my cousin declared it “better than a Louisiana street party.” Perfect for those cozy nights in or lively gatherings with friends, this pasta dish promises unforgettable moments and full bellies.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cajun sausage pasta is not only easy to make but also offers a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds
It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors and can be customized based on what you have in your pantry
Plus, it’s versatile enough for casual dinners or special occasions

I once served this dish at my friend’s potluck, and the bowl was empty before I could even grab seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use your favorite shape—penne or fettuccine work beautifully here.
Cajun Sausage: Choose a smoked sausage for depth; spicy or mild depends on your heat tolerance.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green adds color and sweetness; chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Onion: A medium onion will lend sweetness; slice it thinly for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic punch that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Cajun Seasoning: This is where the magic happens! Use store-bought or homemade for authentic flavor.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding moisture to the dish.
Heavy Cream: For richness and creaminess; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if preferred.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a wonderful nutty flavor—don’t skimp!
Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies; use extra virgin for more flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add 8 ounces of your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, toss in 1 sliced onion and 1 cup of chopped bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic & Sausage: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 12 ounces of sliced Cajun sausage. Let everything cook together until the sausage browns slightly, releasing its savory aroma—about 4-5 minutes.

Add Flavor & Creaminess: Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer before adding 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine everything into creamy goodness.

Toss It All Together: Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together until well-coated in sauce. Allow it to simmer for another couple of minutes so all flavors meld beautifully.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired—a sprinkle that gives every bite that little something extra!

Now you have an incredible bowl of Cajun Sausage Pasta ready to impress your family or friends (or yourself!). Enjoy every scrumptious mouthful!

You Must Know

This delightful Cajun sausage pasta is not just a meal; it’s a party in your mouth
The combination of spices and creamy sauce makes it irresistible
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, saving you from doing a mountain of dishes afterward!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To whip up the best Cajun sausage pasta, start by browning the sausage first. Then, cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything melds together beautifully for a flavorful dish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out sausage for chicken, add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or spice things up with additional Cajun seasoning. Each twist brings a new flavor adventure.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For optimal flavor, let your sausage brown nicely before adding other ingredients
Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key to holding its shape
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum flavor impact

Cooking this Cajun sausage pasta always reminds me of my friend’s dinner party. They were so impressed when I served it that they asked for seconds and thirds—clearly a hit!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of sausage for Cajun sausage pasta?

Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages work well too.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter alternative.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more Cajun seasoning or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes to kick it up!

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