Name: Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 oz Cajun sausage (sliced or crumbled) – preferably smoked Andouille or spicy Italian sausage; 1 medium yellow onion (about 150g), diced; 3 large garlic cloves, minced; Optional: 1 cup diced bell peppers (150g); Optional: 2 cups fresh spinach (60g); 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin works fine); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade blend of smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred); 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml); 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml), low sodium; Salt (for pasta water and seasoning); Red pepper flakes to taste (optional); 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50g); 12 oz penne pasta (340g)

Ingredients

12 oz Cajun sausage (sliced or crumbled) – preferably smoked Andouille or spicy Italian sausage

1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin works fine)

1 medium yellow onion (about 150g), diced

3 large garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade blend of smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)

1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)

1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml), low sodium

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50g)

12 oz penne pasta (340g)

Salt (for pasta water)

Optional add-ins: 1 cup diced bell peppers (150g), 2 cups fresh spinach (60g), red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced or crumbled Cajun sausage. Brown, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges (5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Push the sausage to one side of the skillet. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the sausage and veggies. Stir to coat evenly. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer gently for 4-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss well to coat with the creamy, spicy sauce. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen.

Step 6: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and silky. If using spinach, toss it in now and stir until just wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For extra color and sweetness, add diced bell peppers along with the onions.

Swap penne for rigatoni or farfalle for a different pasta shape.

Add fresh spinach at the end to boost nutrition and add a mild earthy flavor.

Adjust spiciness by adding red pepper flakes or using milder sausage if preferred.

Use homemade Cajun seasoning for fresher and customized flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, while smoked Andouille or spicy Italian sausage are recommended for their flavor, you can substitute with any cooked sausage you prefer. Keep in mind the spice level and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich and creamy. Adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if using lighter dairy.