This creamy Cajun sausage pasta is a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor! With tasty sausage, a hint of spice, and a luscious sauce, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how quick it comes together—just cook the sausage, mix in some cream, and toss with pasta. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer penne for its great shape and sauce-holding ability. If you can’t find penne, swap in fusilli or rigatoni; they work well in creamy dishes too!
Cajun Sausage: Andouille is my top choice for that authentic flavor. If it’s not available, any smoked sausage will do. You can even use chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, onion, and garlic powder. This way, you can control the spice level to your liking!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. You’ll still get a rich taste!
How Can I Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Clumping?
The creaminess of the sauce is key to this dish! To avoid clumping, make sure to cook the sauce on low heat once you add the cream. Here’s how:
- Once the chicken broth is simmering, slowly introduce the cream while stirring constantly.
- Let the sauce thicken for a few minutes on low. If you find it too thick, just add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up!
And don’t forget to mix in the cheese while the sauce is warm to ensure it melts beautifully!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or casarecce)
For the Sausage and Veggies:
- 1 lb Cajun sausage (Andouille or smoked sausage), sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy Cajun sausage pasta will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Once that’s done, take the sausage out of the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté these until they soften, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the veggies and mix well. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine everything into a creamy sauce. Let this simmer on low for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If you like a little kick, toss in some red pepper flakes for extra heat!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your pasta with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful Cajun sausage pasta with friends and family!
FAQ for Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Andouille sausage adds great Cajun flavor, you can substitute it with any smoked sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked so it warms through nicely!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes when mixing in the cream. You can also use a spicy sausage to kick up the flavor! Just be careful not to overpower the dish.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, combine them in a pan over low heat and add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or cream to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.
