Description
A rich and flavorful Cajun Sausage Pasta featuring smoky sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce tossed with penne pasta. This hearty stovetop dish delivers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, ideal for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced sausage. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the sausage is browned.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Incorporate Spices and Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt, stirring well to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Heat Through: Simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
- Shrimp or chicken can be added along with the sausage for a mixed protein version.
- Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce if desired.
