Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Cajun seasoning with creamy pasta and delicious sausage. This recipe is especially popular because it is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in about thirty minutes, making it a great choice for families and anyone who loves a tasty meal that doesn’t take too much time.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This recipe is loved by many for its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. The combination of sausage, bell pepper, and onion adds a hearty touch. The Cajun seasoning brings a little kick, making every bite exciting. It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup, and it’s filling enough to satisfy your hunger. Plus, you can adjust the spice level according to your taste. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will impress everyone.
HOW TO MAKE Cajun Sausage Pasta
Making Cajun Sausage Pasta is simple! Follow the steps outlined below to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To cook Cajun Sausage Pasta, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for sautéing ingredients
- Cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons for ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Cajun Sausage Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Chopped parsley for garnish
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook until the sausage is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook everything until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss in the shredded cheese as well. Stir until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce and everything is well combined.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
HOW TO SERVE Cajun Sausage Pasta
Cajun Sausage Pasta is best served hot. Spoon the pasta into bowls or on plates and garnish with more parsley if desired. You can also sprinkle some additional cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch. Pair it with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Cajun Sausage Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cajun Sausage Pasta will keep well for about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or a little water to help bring back the creamy texture.
For freezing, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Cajun Sausage Pasta pairs well with several sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side dish
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy pasta
VARIATIONS
Feel free to make Cajun Sausage Pasta your own! Here are some ideas for variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage or use more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use hot sausage for an extra spicy dish.
- Different Pasta: You can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, bowtie, or even spaghetti.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding spinach, tomatoes, or corn for added color and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage, such as chicken sausage or turkey sausage.
2. Is this dish spicy?
The level of spice depends on the Cajun seasoning and the type of sausage used. You can adjust the spice level to your liking.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook it when you are ready to serve.
4. How do I make it dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cajun Sausage Pasta
If you want to prepare Cajun Sausage Pasta ahead of time, here are some useful tips:
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onions, bell peppers, and garlic in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
- Cook the Pasta: You can cook the pasta earlier in the day. Just toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sausage Preparation: Cut the sausage the night before and store it in the fridge.
By using these make-ahead tips, you can save time and make cooking Cajun Sausage Pasta easier during busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook everything until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning into the skillet. Stir together and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and shredded cheese to the skillet. Stir until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce and everything is well combined.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.