Name: Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb Cajun sausage (such as andouille), sliced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Cajun Sausage Pasta is a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite at your dinner table. Bursting with the bold flavors of andouille sausage, garlic, and Cajun spices, this creamy pasta dish brings a taste of Louisiana to any weeknight dinner. You’ll find that it’s not only quick to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests at special gatherings. The combination of pasta, sausage, and rich cream makes it irresistibly indulgent, while the fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your menu!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Cajun Sausage Pasta recipe stands out for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in under 30 minutes, allowing you to serve up a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Budget-friendly and kid-approved, this dish combines simple ingredients found in most pantries or grocery stores. The robust flavors of Cajun seasoning and smoky sausage make it an absolute crowd-pleaser, great for family dinners or a casual get-together with friends.

"I absolutely loved this dish! The flavors are vibrant and comforting, and my whole family enjoyed it. It’s now a weekly staple in our home!" — Emily R.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to whip up this delicious Cajun Sausage Pasta? It’s all about easy preparation and ensuring every bite is flavorful. You’ll follow these straightforward steps to create this delightful dish quickly.

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add sliced Cajun sausage and cook until browned.
Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
Stir in Cajun seasoning and dice tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes to meld those flavors.
Add the penne pasta and enough water to cover it, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and cover, cooking until the pasta is al dente.
Stir in the heavy cream and cheese until melted and smooth.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

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Gather Your Ingredients

To recreate this delicious Cajun Sausage Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb Cajun sausage (such as andouille), sliced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese or swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative.

Cooking Steps

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
Cook the sausage until browned, then add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning and diced tomatoes, cooking briefly.
Add penne pasta and cover with enough water to boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and cook until pasta is done.
Stir in heavy cream and cheese until combined and melted.
Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Cajun Sausage Pasta

When it comes to serving Cajun Sausage Pasta, the choices are endless! For a light and refreshing side, consider a simple mixed green salad tossed with vinaigrette to balance the heartiness of the pasta. Warm, crusty French bread is another delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more substantial, a side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully. Top it off with a glass of white wine for a truly satisfying dining experience.

Storage Tips

To ensure your Cajun Sausage Pasta stays fresh, follow these storage tips. After cooking, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container where they can last up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to help restore the creaminess of the sauce. Ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety.

Helpful Hints

Don’t overcook the pasta! Cooking it al dente is crucial, as it will absorb some of the sauce when mixed.
Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, start with a smaller amount of Cajun seasoning and adjust to taste.
Try using turkey sausage for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? There are numerous ways to put your spin on this Cajun Sausage Pasta. Add bell peppers or spinach for a veggie boost, or swap in different types of pasta to change the texture. For an extra kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

You can also explore a creamy Cajun shrimp version by adding sautéed shrimp instead of sausage. The options are as endless as your imagination!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Cajun Sausage Pasta?

This dish can be prepared in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite sausage or even chicken for a lighter meat option.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat your pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or cream over medium heat until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Cajun Sausage Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Louisiana that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!

Cajun Sausage Pasta

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Paleo

Description

A creamy and flavorful Cajun Sausage Pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb Cajun sausage (such as andouille), sliced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
Cook the sausage until browned, then add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning and diced tomatoes, cooking briefly.
Add penne pasta and cover with enough water to boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and cook until pasta is done.
Stir in heavy cream and cheese until combined and melted.
Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes