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By That Love Podcast • September 27, 2024
Category: Main Course • American
Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that packs a punch? This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the perfect solution! Smoky andouille sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant veggies are all tossed in a rich, Cajun-inspired sauce that’s both creamy and spicy. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights without sacrificing bold flavor. If you love a mix of creamy and spicy with Cajun flair, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love Cajun Sausage Pasta
Bold, Spicy Flavors: The Cajun seasoning and andouille sausage bring a smoky heat that is balanced by the creamy sauce.
Quick & Easy: On the table in less than 30 minutes—perfect for a fast, delicious dinner.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything is made in a single skillet.
Versatile Recipe: You can easily adjust the spice level or switch up the sausage for a milder or different flavor.
Perfect for Families: The vibrant colors and rich taste will be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
12-16 oz short-cut pasta – Penne, bowtie, or gemelli work best. Use gluten-free if needed.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – Divided. Adjust the amount for your spice preference.
12 oz andouille sausage – Sliced. Opt for less spicy varieties if desired.
1 medium yellow onion – Diced.
2 medium bell peppers – Any color, diced.
Pinch of red pepper flakes – To taste.
2 cloves garlic – Minced for extra flavor.
1 ¼ cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce.
½ cup heavy cream – Adds richness to the sauce.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – For depth of flavor.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Plus extra for serving.
Fresh parsley – For garnish.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Cook the pasta. Bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta to al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Cook the sausage. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, cooking until the sausage is crispy, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a clean plate.
Sauté the veggies. Add diced onion, bell peppers, remaining Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the same skillet. Cook for 3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Make the sauce. Whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine and serve. Stir in Parmesan cheese, then toss in the cooked pasta and crispy sausage. Add reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan.
Recipe Variations
Tone Down the Spice: Opt for a milder sausage like kielbasa or reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.
Switch the Pasta: Try penne, bowtie, or even fettuccine for a different texture.
Change the Sausage: Substitute with chicken sausage, smoked sausage, or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Add Veggies: Include spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini for more greens in your dish.
Tips for Storing & Reheating
To Store: Let the Cajun sausage pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze: This dish freezes well! Just store the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat: Warm in the microwave or over low heat on the stove until heated through. Add a little broth or water to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened.
FAQs
Can I make this dish less spicy?Yes! Use a milder sausage like kielbasa and reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Can I use a different type of pasta?Absolutely! Penne, bowtie, gemelli, or even fettuccine all work well with this sauce.
Can I use a different type of sausage?Yes, feel free to switch it up with smoked sausage, chicken sausage, or even Spanish chorizo for a new flavor twist.
How do I thicken the sauce?If your sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes or add more Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?Yes, you can make the pasta and sauce ahead. Just store them separately, then toss together and heat before serving.
What can I serve with this pasta?A fresh green salad or garlic bread would pair perfectly with the rich flavors of this dish.
Is this dish gluten-free?It can be! Just use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free as well.
Can I add extra vegetables?Definitely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions and boost the nutritional value.
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