Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta! Imagine a dish that combines the smoky richness of sausage, the vibrant kick of Cajun seasoning, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a flavor adventure that brings the bold spirit of Louisiana right to your dinner table in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of penne pasta, 1 lb of smoked sausage (sliced), 1 bell pepper (chopped), 1 onion (chopped), 3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, and Parmesan cheese for serving.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through.
- Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Mix well and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it directly to the skillet with the creamy sausage mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the sauce to settle. Serve the creamy Cajun sausage pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Enjoy your delicious and creamy Cajun sausage pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Tips
- Choose the right sausage: Opt for a high-quality smoked sausage for maximum flavor. Andouille sausage works wonderfully if you want an authentic Cajun touch.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente to ensure a perfect texture that holds up to the creamy sauce.
- Control your Cajun seasoning: Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Use fresh garlic: Minced fresh garlic provides a more intense flavor compared to pre-minced versions.
- Let the sauce thicken naturally: Allow the cream to reduce slightly for a richer, more luxurious consistency.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parmesan and chopped parsley can elevate the dish's presentation and flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a Greek yogurt base.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg
