Cajun Pasta with Sausage

I’ve always been a fan of bold, spicy flavors that wake up your taste buds, and this Cajun pasta with sausage is one of those dishes that never fails to hit the spot. Growing up, I’d watch my mom whip up hearty meals with whatever was in the pantry, and that’s where my love for tossing together simple ingredients to create something magical began. This recipe reminds me of those cozy nights, but with a Louisiana-inspired twist that brings a little heat and a lot of comfort.

I first tried Cajun pasta at a small diner on a road trip, and I was hooked—smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and just the right kick of spice. After some experimenting in my own kitchen, I nailed this version that’s easy enough for weeknights but feels like a treat. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving something soul-warming, this dish delivers. Let’s dive into how to make this Cajun pasta with sausage, complete with tips, tricks, and everything you need to make it your own.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and slightly crispy. Remove sausage and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the veggies and stir. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked sausage and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley (if using) and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!

Related Recipes:

Pasta with Sausage

Garlic Noodles with Sausage

Pro Cooking Tips

• Adjust the Heat: Cajun seasoning varies in spice level. Start with 1 tbsp and taste before adding more to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic is convenient, but fresh cloves give a bolder flavor that shines in this recipe.
• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: It’s starchy and helps the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.
• Quality Sausage Matters: Andouille sausage is traditional for Cajun dishes, but kielbasa works great too. Pick a smoky, high-quality brand for the best flavor.

Variations

• Add Shrimp: Toss in 1/2 lb of peeled shrimp during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking for a surf-and-turf twist.
• Go Veggie: Swap sausage for mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
• Make It Cheesier: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella for an extra creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your sausage and Cajun seasoning for gluten content.

Storage Suggestions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
• Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this Cajun pasta hot, straight from the skillet, with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a true Southern vibe, pair it with cornbread or a cold iced tea. It’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep for the week. Want to impress? Sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 980mg

Note: Nutrition varies based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes! Use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount to 1 tsp. You can also add more cream to mellow the heat.

What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk works, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Absolutely. Just slice and brown it briefly to bring out the flavor before adding to the dish.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Kids might love it if you dial back the Cajun seasoning and use a mild sausage. Taste as you go to keep it mild.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, prepare the sauce and sausage mixture in advance, then cook the pasta and combine when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Cajun pasta with sausage is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor, yet so easy to whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or toss in your own twists, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your skillet, crank up some music, and let’s get cooking. What’s your favorite way to spice up pasta night? Let me know in the comments!