Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish full of flavor. This recipe marries the spiciness of Cajun sausage with creamy pasta. The result is a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and tastes fantastic. Many people enjoy this dish for its rich taste and the balance of spices. It is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love Cajun Sausage Pasta for several reasons. First, it is quick to make. You can have dinner on the table in under thirty minutes. Second, it is a one-pan meal that means less cleanup afterward. Third, the flavors are vibrant and comforting. The blend of creamy sauce and savory sausage makes every bite delicious. Also, it is very filling, so a little goes a long way. Lastly, it is versatile. You can change the vegetables or type of pasta to suit your taste.
HOW TO MAKE Cajun Sausage Pasta
Making Cajun Sausage Pasta is simple. With just a few steps, you can create a beautiful and tasty dish that your family will love.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Cajun Sausage Pasta, you will need a few kitchen tools. Here’s what you should gather:
- A large pot for boiling the pasta
- A colander for draining the pasta
- A large skillet for cooking the sausage and vegetables
- A wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- Measuring spoons and cups
- A knife and chopping board for slicing the vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb Cajun sausage (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced Cajun sausage. Cook until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy.
- Add Vegetables: Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté this mixture until the vegetables are softened.
- Seasoning: Stir in the Cajun seasoning. Make sure it coats the sausage and vegetables well.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Final Seasoning: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.
HOW TO SERVE Cajun Sausage Pasta
Serve Cajun Sausage Pasta hot from the skillet. Place it into bowls or on plates. You may top it with extra cheese or parsley for decoration. This dish goes well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. It is also perfect with a cool drink like iced tea or lemonade.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Cajun Sausage Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container. Keep the pasta in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If you want to freeze Cajun Sausage Pasta, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
While Cajun Sausage Pasta is delicious on its own, you can add more to the table. Here are some ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread for a delightful side.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli can complement the dish well.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine or a light beer is a great drink to enjoy with this pasta.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to modify this recipe based on your preference. Here are some options:
- Different Sausage: You can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Add Veggies: Include spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste. Add more for a spicier dish or use less for milder flavors.
- Pasta Choice: Use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or bowties.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the sausage with vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a meatless version. - Is Cajun Sausage Pasta spicy?
It can be spicy depending on the Cajun sausage used and the amount of seasoning. Adjust according to your taste. - Can I use low-fat cream?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. - How long does it take to make this dish?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cajun Sausage Pasta
If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can do a couple of things:
- Chop Ingredients: Chop all your vegetables and slice the sausage ahead of time. Keep them in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
- Cook the Pasta: You can cook the pasta a few hours in advance. Just toss it in a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.
By following these tips, you can make Cajun Sausage Pasta even faster on a busy day. Enjoy your meal!
This spicy, flavorful pasta works beautifully alongside our cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage for those who love sausage-based dinners. For more pasta variety, pair it with our creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta to offer both spicy and creamy options at your next gathering. The bold Cajun flavors also complement our chicken bacon ranch pasta when you want to create a complete pasta bar with different flavor profiles.
Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning until it coats the sausage and vegetables.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.