Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal. The combination of smoked sausage, creamy sauce, and spices creates a flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you!
How to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Add sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning.
- Add the pasta and enough water or broth to cover, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
How to Serve Cajun Sausage Pasta
Serve Cajun Sausage Pasta immediately after cooking. You can plate it in large bowls or individual servings. It also goes well with a side salad or garlic bread to balance the rich flavors. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese or chopped parsley on top for a nice touch!
How to Store Cajun Sausage Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta
- For a spicier kick, you can add hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking; it should be al dente.
Variation
You can easily make this dish with chicken instead of sausage. Just cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking steps. Another variation is to use a different type of pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?
Yes, fresh sausage will work, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
2. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and mild spices usually appeal to children, making it a great family meal.
3. Can I freeze Cajun Sausage Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it, but it might change texture when thawed. It’s best to eat it fresh, but if you need to store it, freeze it in portions.
Cajun Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delicious one-pot Cajun Sausage Pasta that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Add sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning.
- Add the pasta and enough water or broth to cover, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
This dish can be customized with additional vegetables or lean proteins like chicken. To store leftovers, it’s best kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Cajun, pasta, sausage, one-pot, quick meal