Save A creamy, spicy pasta dish combining smoky sausage, Cajun spices, and a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal ready in just 20 minutes.
This dish quickly became a family favorite because of its bold flavors and comforting creaminess
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- Sausage: 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage (e.g., andouille or kielbasa) sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- Vegetables: 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 1 red bell pepper diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste), ¼ tsp black pepper, ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, sauté onion and red bell pepper for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 5:
- Reduce heat to low, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and sauce is smooth.
- Step 6:
- Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked penne and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice if desired.
- Step 7:
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Save We enjoy this meal together on busy weeknights as it brings everyone around the table with ease
Notes
For extra heat add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce Substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version Use gluten-free pasta if needed Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread
Required Tools
Large pot (for boiling pasta) Large skillet Chefs knife Cutting board Wooden spoon or spatula Grater (for Parmesan)
Nutritional Information
Calories 680 Total Fat 42 g Carbohydrates 47 g Protein 26 g per serving
Save This recipe is a perfect blend of smoky and creamy that you can prepare on any weeknight with minimal fuss
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausages like andouille or kielbasa add a robust, smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, rigatoni or fusilli work well as they hold the sauce effectively.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The Cajun seasoning provides a mild to moderate heat; adjust spice by adding cayenne pepper if desired.
- → Is it possible to make a lighter version?
Substitute turkey or chicken sausage and use reduced-fat cream to create a lighter dish.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Maintain low heat after adding cream and cheese, stirring gently until the sauce is smooth.
- → What garnishes work well?
Fresh parsley adds color and brightness, balancing the creamy richness of the dish.