Name: Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta; 1 lb smoked sausage or Andouille sausage (sliced into ½-inch rounds); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced); 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced); 1 small yellow onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional); 2-3 green onions (chopped for garnish); 1 cup heavy cream; 0.5 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1-2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); salt and black pepper (to taste); 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 2 tbsp unsalted butter; fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

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If you’re craving a quick, comforting dinner packed with bold flavors, this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is your go-to recipe. Combining the smoky, spicy kick of Cajun-seasoned sausage with a luscious cream sauce, it’s a dish that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves pasta with a little heat, creamy textures, and the convenience of a fast, one-pan dinner. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite pasta shapes and vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

Pasta & Protein
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb smoked sausage or Andouille sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 2–3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Creamy Cajun Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1–2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crisp, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes if using and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in butter, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta and browned sausage back to the skillet. Toss everything together until pasta is coated in creamy sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Add Cheese & Season: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or extra Cajun spice if desired.
Serve & Garnish: Plate pasta in bowls, sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions. Optional: a light drizzle of extra cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for presentation. Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Balance the Heat: Cajun seasoning can vary in spiciness. Start with 1 tsp, taste, and add more if desired.
Cream Options: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though sauce will be slightly less rich.
Pasta Choice: Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold the sauce beautifully, but spaghetti works for a quick swap.
Make Ahead: Cook pasta and sausage in advance. Reheat together with cream sauce on the stovetop for an easy weeknight dinner.

Variations & Add-Ons

Vegetarian Version: Swap sausage for smoked tempeh or roasted mushrooms.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for more color and nutrients.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in mozzarella or fontina cheese for a gooey, indulgent texture.
Spicy Boost: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce if you like it fiery.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Serve with garlic bread or crusty French bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A chilled glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the smoky sausage and creamy flavors perfectly.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Cajun cuisine originates from Louisiana and is known for bold, rustic flavors with French, African, and Spanish influences. Sausage, peppers, onions, and a rich cream or tomato-based sauce are staples in this cuisine. While Cajun pasta isn’t traditional, it’s inspired by these flavors and has become a favorite comfort food across the U.S., especially in weeknight meals for its simplicity and flavor punch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
Flavorful: Spicy, smoky, creamy, and cheesy all in one bite.
Customizable: Easily tweak heat, vegetables, or pasta type.
Comfort Food: Rich, satisfying, and perfect for any season.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. It’s a versatile recipe that you’ll keep coming back to for busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners.