Cajun Sausage Pasta

Craving a Taste of the Bayou?

Imagine a creamy, zesty pasta dish that transports you straight to Louisiana with each twirl of your fork. That’s what you get with Cajun Sausage Pasta! This one-pan wonder is the perfect mix of smoky Cajun flavors, vibrant veggies, and cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it an easy go-to for a cozy dinner after a long day.

Why Make This Recipe?

This recipe is a dream come true for busy weeknights. Here’s why you’ll want it in your dinner rotation:

• Easy cleanup: Who doesn’t love a meal that leaves you with only one pot to wash? Less time scrubbing means more time lounging!
• Family-friendly: Kids love pasta, and who can resist the allure of sausage and cheese? Even the pickiest eaters might give this a thumbs up!
• Budget-friendly: Gather your ingredients without breaking the bank. This dish is full of flavor without expensive add-ons!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Let’s get cooking with these easy steps:

1. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté until the vegetables are soft.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheese; stir until well combined and the cheese is melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta (Overview)

Ready to dive into cooking? Here’s the game plan! Start by boiling your pasta to get it ready for the flavorful journey ahead. While that’s happening, let your sausage sizzle until golden brown and then toss in those colorful veggies. The aroma will be enough to make you crank up the appetite factor! As everything melds together, the creaminess kicks in courtesy of heavy cream and lots of cheesy goodness. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — trust me, it makes all the difference in flavor!

How to Serve Cajun Sausage Pasta

This dish is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a visual party too! Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color against the rich, creamy sauce. Pair it with a crunchy side salad or some garlic bread to soak up every last drop. The aromas will have everyone racing to the table, and the generous portions will leave no one hungry.

How to Store Cajun Sausage Pasta

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Cajun Sausage Pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just pop it in an airtight container, and you’re good to go! If you’re feeling like a meal prep pro, this dish also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy again, reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed throughout.

Tips to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta

Here are some quick insider tricks to elevate your dish:

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier spin.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice tolerance. Not everyone likes it hot!
• Experiment with adding spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Swap the sausages for diced chicken or a plant-based option if you prefer.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Switch up the flavor! Toss in some creole seasoning or, for a vegan twist, use plant-based sausage and almond milk instead of heavy cream. Also, try adding a splash of cooking wine for a touch of sophisticated flavor. The possibilities are as wide as the bayou!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until adding the cheese, then store it in the fridge and finish cooking when ready to serve.

2. Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to swap in any cooked sausage, like chicken or turkey, for a lighter option.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure you have a pot that’s big enough to hold all that deliciousness.

Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant, hearty Cajun Sausage Pasta! You won’t regret it.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Cajun Sausage Pasta

A creamy, zesty pasta dish featuring smoky Cajun sausage, vibrant veggies, and cheesy goodness, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Cajun, Louisiana

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté until the vegetables are soft.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheese; stir until well combined and the cheese is melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For variations, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Adjust Cajun seasoning according to spice tolerance. You can also add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies, or swap sausages for chicken or plant-based options. Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.