Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Pasta
01 -
12 oz penne or rigatoni
02 -
4 cups water (for boiling)
03 -
Salt (for pasta water)
→ For the Sausage and Vegetables
04 -
12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into rounds
05 -
1 tbsp olive oil
06 -
1 small onion, diced
07 -
1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
08 -
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
09 -
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
10 -
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
→ For the Creamy Sauce
11 -
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
12 -
1 cup heavy cream
13 -
1 cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese
14 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
15 -
Salt to taste
→ Optional Add-ins
16 -
1/2 lb shrimp (for a surf-and-turf twist)
17 -
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (for earthy depth)
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in Cajun seasoning and flour, coating the vegetables evenly.
04 -
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
05 -
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to coat with the broth mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavor.
06 -
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Add the black pepper and adjust salt as needed.
07 -
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well. If using spinach, stir it in now and let it wilt for about 1 minute.
08 -
Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or red pepper flakes for added heat.
# Notes:
01 -
Adjust the Cajun seasoning for your preferred spice level
02 -
For extra smokiness, use fire-roasted bell peppers
03 -
Want a lighter version? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half
04 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days