Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana right to your dinner table. With its creamy sauce, savory andouille sausage, and colorful veggies, this recipe is not just comforting; it’s also incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Sausage Pasta:
- Bold Flavor: The Cajun seasoning infuses every bite with a kick of spice that’s simply irresistible.
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch for easy lunches throughout the week!
Ingredients Needed:
Protein:
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Extras:
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning; stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to coat in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top.
Serving Suggestions for Cajun Sausage Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. Feel free to sprinkle with extra Cajun seasoning for an added kick or enjoy it with a glass of your favorite chilled white wine.
Tips for Success with Cajun Sausage Pasta
- Pasta Choice: Opt for hearty pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine that can hold the creamy sauce well.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Sauté just until softened to maintain some crunch and color.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning, or add it gradually to taste.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, feel free to add shrimp or chicken to the skillet.
Variation
For a veggie-packed version, you can add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables. This not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine them on the stovetop until warmed through.
What can I substitute for andouille sausage?
If you can’t find andouille sausage, you can use any smoked sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Is Cajun Sausage Pasta spicy?
While Cajun seasoning does have a bit of heat, you can adjust the amount to make it suitable for your family’s taste.
Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning; stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to coat in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top.
