Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Cajun Pasta with Sausage is a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors and a bit of heat. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The blend of sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced cooks.
How to Make Spicy Cajun Pasta with Sausage
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb sausage (Italian sausage or Cajun sausage)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
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While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns, until fully cooked.
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Add the sliced bell pepper and chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and oregano. Then add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting it cook for about 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve Spicy Cajun Pasta with Sausage
Serve Spicy Cajun Pasta hot, straight from the skillet. You can top it with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Spicy Cajun Pasta with Sausage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of water or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Spicy Cajun Pasta with Sausage
- For more heat, use a spicier variety of sausage or increase the Cajun seasoning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Variation
You can make a lighter version by using turkey sausage or substituting heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk. Adding shrimp instead of sausage can also create a seafood variation that complements the Cajun spices well.
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free penne pasta. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.
2. Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
Cajun seasoning can vary in spice level, but it typically has a mild to medium heat. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the sausage and add more vegetables or use plant-based sausage options to make it vegetarian-friendly. You might also want to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor.