Description
Cajun Sausage Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and smoky dish that brings the bold flavors of Louisiana straight to your dinner table. Featuring hearty Andouille sausage, a rich and flavorful Cajun-spiced cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pan recipe is easy to customize by adding shrimp, chicken, or extra veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Cajun Sausage & Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) Andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for extra depth)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage & Vegetables
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned on both sides (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cajun Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the tomato paste (if using).
- Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and mix well until fully coated in the sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot!
Notes
- Protein Variations: Swap Andouille sausage for chicken, shrimp, or chorizo for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Use smoked tofu or mushrooms in place of sausage.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
- Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings