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 ease of preparation.
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
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Sausage:
- 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.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- 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.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
- Finish Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Save This recipe often leads to joyful family dinners filled with compliments and requests for seconds.
Notes
For extra heat add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. 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.
Allergen Information
Contains milk/dairy (cream Parmesan cheese) and wheat (penne pasta). Contains possible sulfites in some smoked sausages. Double check sausage ingredients for allergens or gluten if sensitive.
Save Enjoy this creamy flavorful dish as a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dinner.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of sausage is best for this dish?
Smoked sausages like andouille or kielbasa work best, providing a smoky flavor that complements the Cajun spices.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase heat, or reduce spices for a milder profile.
- → How should I cook the pasta for best results?
Boil penne in well-salted water until just al dente to ensure it holds texture when tossed in the creamy sauce.
- → Are there good substitutions for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but heavy cream ensures a richer, thicker sauce.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
Try using turkey or chicken sausage and gluten-free pasta to reduce fat and accommodate dietary needs.