This Cajun Sausage Pasta is a fun and spicy dish, perfect for those who love a little kick! With juicy sausage, colorful bell peppers, and creamy sauce, it’s a winner!
I always enjoy how quick and easy this meal is to whip up. Plus, it brings smiles to the table. Who doesn’t love a bowl of warmth and flavor? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using casarecce, as its twists hold the sauce well. However, you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times!
Cajun Sausage: Smoked sausage adds great flavor here. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey sausage or for a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage or even some sautéed portobello mushrooms.
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers bring sweetness and color, but feel free to use green or yellow peppers if that’s what you have. Even zucchini would work in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can substitute with half-and-half or use a dairy-free cream if you’re avoiding dairy. It will still provide a nice creaminess to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re out, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can work as a substitute. Both will give a nice cheesy finish.
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Browned?
Browning the sausage enhances its flavor, so it’s key to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet and make sure it’s not overcrowded to allow for proper browning.
- Don’t rush; let the sausage cook on each side for about 4-5 minutes. This will caramelize the edges.
- After browning, remove the sausage and don’t skip deglazing the pan with chicken broth. This step lifts flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.
Perfectly browned sausage not only adds richness but also a lovely texture to your Cajun Sausage Pasta. Enjoy!
How to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (preferably casarecce or similar twisted shape)
- 1 lb smoked Cajun sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal can be ready in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and about 20 minutes for cooking everything together. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Add Garlic and Spices:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let it cook for 1 more minute to toast the spices.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until the cheese melts and the sauce slightly thickens.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage and the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce and that the sausage and vegetables are evenly distributed.
7. Final Seasoning:
Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if desired.
8. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cajun Sausage Pasta!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta can be a great substitute. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works well. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty bite.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time. Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy your meal later!
