Description
A delicious and creamy one-pot Cajun sausage pasta that comes together in just 30 minutes. This hearty dish features smoked Andouille or kielbasa sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, flavorful Cajun-spiced cream sauce, enhanced with bell peppers, onions, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a spicy kick!
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Pasta
- 10 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth (add more if needed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional Additions and Garnish
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage: Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy incorporation into the pasta.
- Sauté vegetables and sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage, diced bell peppers, and onions. Cook until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add seasoning: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the sausage and vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add pasta and liquids: Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add a bit more chicken broth to keep the pasta from drying out.
- Add cheese and spinach: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. If using, add the fresh spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Use Andouille sausage for a more authentic Cajun flavor, but kielbasa works well too.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Adding fresh spinach boosts nutrition and color but is optional.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your taste.
- To save time, you can prepare the sausage and vegetables the night before.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Keywords: Cajun sausage pasta, one pot pasta, creamy pasta, Andouille sausage recipe, spicy sausage pasta, easy weeknight dinner