Sometimes you just need something warm and cheesy. This creamy cajun sausage pasta is the perfect solution for busy winter nights. It is spicy, filling, and takes very little effort. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in 35 minutes.
Your family will love the bold flavors and tender pasta. It is a great way to make a weeknight feel special. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a very satisfying result. Let’s get cooking and bring some warmth to your kitchen today.
Why This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it uses simple pantry staples. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you are short on time. The heavy cream creates a velvet-like texture that coats every noodle. Bold Cajun spices provide just the right amount of heat for your palate.
Your family will love the smoky sausage and silky sauce. It feels like a special treat without the high price tag. This dish is hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. It is a wonderful way to recharge after a long day.
Simple Cooking Method
Making this dish is very straightforward and fast. You will boil the pasta while you sear the sausage. Everything then simmers together in one pan for easy cleanup and less stress. Even beginner cooks can master this flavorful meal with ease. You will feel like a pro in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry. Using fresh peppers and onions adds a bright and fresh crunch.
- 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced sausage to the skillet and brown for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta, tossing until thoroughly coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this pasta warm with a side of crusty bread. A fresh green salad helps balance the rich and spicy sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine for a date night. It is a beautiful meal that tastes even better than it looks.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk. This helps keep the sauce creamy and smooth for lunch. You will look forward to these leftovers all morning long. Avoid freezing this dish as the cream sauce may separate.
Tips for Best Results
Ways to Switch It Up
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sauce and sausage a day early. Just toss with fresh pasta right before you are ready to serve. This keeps the noodles from getting too soft or mushy.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat mostly comes from the type of sausage you choose. Andouille is traditional but you can use mild smoked sausage instead. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to fit your family’s personal spice preference.
How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will also thicken slightly more as it cools on the plate. Watch for a gentle simmer and a light shimmer.
I hope this comforting meal brings a little warmth to your table. It is one of my favorite ways to feed a hungry crowd. Give it a try tonight and enjoy every spicy bite.
— Alex
Ingredients
- 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 green onions , sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced sausage to the skillet and brown for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta, tossing until thoroughly coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
