Your New Favorite Comfort Pasta: Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Hey, pasta lovers! If you’re looking for a creamy, spicy dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings, you’ve come to the right spot. I absolutely adore this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, and I bet you will too! It’s the perfect blend of flavors—spicy sausage, rich cream, and a kick of Cajun seasoning that comes together in just one pot. Let’s dive in!
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this dish delicious, but it also packs some nutritional perks! The Cajun sausage brings protein to the table, which is great for muscle-building and keeping you full longer. Plus, the sun-dried tomatoes add a bit of fiber and antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system. And let’s not forget about the creamy goodness of heavy cream—it’s indulgent but provides calcium, crucial for strong bones!
Adaptable Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the Cajun sausage for a plant-based sausage or chickpeas. You’ll still get that hearty texture!
- Extra Veggies: Stir in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta for a delicious gluten-free dinner.
- Less Heat: If you’re not a fan of spice, simply reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild sausage.
Let’s Get Cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound Cajun sausage, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat and gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavor based on how spicy you like it.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Want even more flavor? Consider marinating your sausage in Cajun spice before cooking!
- Storing leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
- If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out.
- Pair this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick list of tools you’ll need to make this recipe:
- A large pot for cooking the pasta
- A skillet to sauté the sausage and make the sauce
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup and spoons for precise quantities
- A good knife and cutting board for chopping
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! Feel free to use chicken, turkey, or even a vegan sausage option.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you need a lighter option.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Just store the components separately and reheat before serving for the best texture.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add more Cajun seasoning or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
- Does this freeze well? You can freeze it, but the cream may separate. Just thaw and reheat gently, and it should still taste delicious!
Join the Conversation!
Are you ready to dive into this creamy delight? I’d love to hear how your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta turns out! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more tasty creations that will tantalize your taste buds. Happy cooking!
