Here’s a delicious, creamy Cajun sausage pasta recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It combines smoky sausage, bold Cajun spices, and a rich, creamy sauce all tossed with your favorite pasta.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Ready in 30 minutes | 🍽 Serves 4
Ingredients:
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12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
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1 small onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for more smokiness)
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. -
Cook the sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sliced sausage. Sauté until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside. -
Sauté veggies
In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened (3–4 minutes), then stir in garlic. Cook 30 seconds more. -
Add seasoning
Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir to coat the veggies evenly. -
Make it creamy
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water), stirring to combine. Simmer 2–3 minutes. -
Add cheese and sausage
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return sausage to the skillet. -
Toss with pasta
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. -
Garnish and serve
Top with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot!
Tips:
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For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
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Want to lighten it up? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
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Add spinach or mushrooms for more veggies.
