Save to Pinterest A creamy, spicy Cajun-inspired pasta dish featuring smoky sausage and penne, all tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights ready in just 20 minutes!
I first served this flavorful dish on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) penne pasta
- Meats: 350 g (12 oz) smoked sausage sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- Vegetables: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 small red bell pepper diced
- Sauce: 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste), 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, Salt to taste
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, Extra grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the smoked sausage and sauté for 3&4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 2&3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Step 4:
- Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream Parmesan Cajun seasoning smoked paprika black pepper and a pinch of salt. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Step 5:
- Return the sausage to the skillet add the drained penne and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick add a splash of reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings the family together around the dinner table sharing stories and laughter.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Colander
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cream Parmesan cheese) and wheat (pasta). Sausage may contain soy or other allergens check labels. Not suitable for vegetarians.
Nutritional Information
Calories 630, Total Fat 36 g, Carbohydrates 50 g, Protein 26 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this creamy Cajun dish as a quick satisfying meal any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different sausage for this dish?
Yes, smoked turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter flavor without sacrificing the dish’s savory profile.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this meal?
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach along with the onions and bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients.
- → What pasta is best for this creamy sauce?
Penne pasta works well as its ridges and tubular shape help hold the creamy Alfredo sauce effectively.
- → How do I adjust the spice level of the dish?
Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase heat, or reduce seasoning for a milder flavor.
- → Can the sauce consistency be adjusted?
If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it and achieve the desired creaminess.