Name: Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 bell pepper (chopped); 1 onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack); Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

There’s something about a cozy bowl of Cajun sausage pasta that just warms the soul. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big hug after a long day. The smoky sausage paired with creamy cheese and those vibrant veggies makes for a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it comes together so quickly! Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free dinner idea.

why make this recipe

You’ll find that this Cajun sausage pasta is not just tasty but also comforting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any night of the week. The Cajun seasoning adds a nice kick without being overwhelming. Plus, if you’re cooking for a family, this recipe ensures everyone will leave the table happy. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping it delicious. Gather around and let’s make this creamy, dreamy dish together!

how to make Cajun Sausage Pasta

Let’s dive into cooking! You’ll need just a few basic ingredients for this recipe. Here’s your shopping list:

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 bell pepper (chopped)
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Start by grabbing a large pot. Drizzle a little olive oil into it and set your heat to medium. Toss in the sliced sausage. Sauté until it turns that lovely golden brown. The smell is already so good!

Next, add in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir everything around until those veggies soften up. This takes just a few minutes. Now, sprinkle that Cajun seasoning right in and let it cook for another minute to really bring out the flavors.

Time to add the pasta! Toss it in with enough water to cover everything. Bring it all to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on the pasta and cook it until it’s al dente. We want it cooked but still slightly firm.

Once the pasta is ready, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and rich. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Serve it warm. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top!

how to serve Cajun Sausage Pasta

This dish is fabulous on its own, but you can always pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread. I love serving this with some sourdough garlic rolls. They’re perfect for soaking up that delicious creamy sauce!

how to store Cajun Sausage Pasta

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extra Cajun sausage pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave for a quick lunch later on.

tips to make Cajun Sausage Pasta

Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful. If you want to cut down on prep time, use pre-sliced veggies. You can also swap in any sausage you love or have on hand! Want to make it even creamier? Add a bit more cheese or a splash more cream. If you’re into a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes. This dish is super versatile! For a great side dish, consider making an easy Caprese salad.

variation (if any)

Not in the mood for sausage? You can easily replace it with grilled chicken or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a lighter version, consider using whole grain pasta and adding extra veggies like spinach or zucchini.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne or rotini works great, but you can use any shape you enjoy. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

Is this recipe spicy?
The Cajun seasoning adds a nice kick, but it’s not overpowering. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount of seasoning or even use a mild blend.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare it in advance! Just keep the pasta and sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps to keep the pasta from getting too soggy.

So, roll up those sleeves, and let’s get cooking! This Cajun sausage pasta will surely become a go-to in your cozy kitchen.

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