Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and creamy pasta dish with a bit of a kick, Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a fantastic option. This dish combines the smokiness of sausage with a rich, flavorful sauce that will satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 12 ounces pasta (penne or your choice)
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy cooking this flavorful Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta and indulge in a delightful meal that’s bound to become a favorite in your household!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds to toast the spices. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and diced tomatoes, then let the sauce simmer gently for another 5 minutes until it thickens.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. If using, add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjusting Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your preference for spiciness.
Vegetarian Option
You can substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water for later use.
Sautéing Sausage
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add sliced sausage, and cook until browned, then remove from the skillet.
Cooking Aromatics
In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until soft, then add minced garlic until fragrant to build flavor for the sauce.
Preparing the Sauce
Combine spices in the skillet, add chicken broth, and simmer to reduce. Incorporate heavy cream and diced tomatoes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Combining Ingredients
Return sausage to the skillet, mix in cooked pasta, and adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water. Stir in spinach if desired and finish with grated Parmesan.
Serving
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute smoked sausage with other types such as chicken sausage or Italian sausage based on your preference.
Can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cream, or replacing it with a lighter alternative.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream for a lighter version.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors, making for a satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The combination of smoked sausage, spices, and creamy sauce complements the pasta perfectly. It’s a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Pasta
Try using shrimp instead of sausage, with a similar creamy sauce and Cajun spices for a seafood twist.
Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Substitute the sausage with grilled chicken and mix in fettuccine for a Cajun-style Alfredo that’s rich and flavorful.
Vegetarian Cajun Pasta
Opt for plant-based sausage and add vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty, meatless meal.
One-Pan Cajun Sausage and Rice
Combine sausage, rice, and Cajun spices in a one-pan dish for a simple and satisfying meal.
Cajun Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of Cajun sausage, rice, and cheese for a flavorful and colorful dish.
