Recipe for Creamy Cajun Pasta with Andouille Sausage
This Creamy Cajun Pasta with Andouille Sausage is a bold, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The smoky, spicy sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, while Cajun spices add a delightful kick.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Colander
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 12 Ounces Penne or fettuccine
- Water for boiling
- 1 Tsp Salt
For the sauce:
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil
- 12 Ounces Andouille sausage sliced
- 1 Whole Small onion diced
- 3 Cloves Garlic minced
- 1 Cup Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) sliced
- 2 Tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 Tsp Smoked paprika
- ½ Tsp Crushed red pepper flakes optional, for extra spice
- 1 Cup Heavy cream
- 1 Cup Chicken broth
- ½ Cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For garnish:
- 2 Tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the sausage and vegetables:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes.Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Build the sauce:Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes over the vegetables. Stir well to coat.Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine everything:Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta.Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste for seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve and garnish:Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl.Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.Serve immediately.
Video
Notes
- Substitute andouille sausage with smoked sausage or chorizo for similar flavors.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer; penne, linguine, or rotini all pair well with this creamy sauce.