Save A creamy, spicy one-pot pasta dish featuring smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun Alfredo sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe has become one of my go-to dinners after a long workday. I first tried it when looking for a way to use up smoked sausage and was amazed at how bold and comforting the flavors were.
Ingredients
- Smoked sausage: 14 oz (400 g), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Penne pasta: 12 oz (340 g)
- Chicken broth: 4 cups (1 liter), low-sodium
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100 g), freshly grated
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tablespoons
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ¼ teaspoon, optional
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Extra Parmesan: for serving
Instructions
- Brown sausage:
- Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add garlic and seasoning:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add pasta and liquids:
- Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. Stir well, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Parmesan:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Save Our family loves this dish especially on chilly evenings, gathered around the dinner table sharing the creamy, spicy flavors and laughter.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Cajun smoked sausage Alfredo with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Variations
For a lighter version, substitute turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use gluten-free pasta to make the dish allergen-friendly.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: Calories 680, Total Fat 38 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 29 g.
Save Enjoy this quick and flavorful dinner with your loved ones and savor the Cajun twist. The creamy sauce with smoky sausage makes each bite unforgettable.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of sausage works best for this dish?
Smoked sausage with a bold flavor complements the creamy Cajun sauce well. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter variation.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta in this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be substituted to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
- → How do I add extra heat to the dish?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce will enhance the spiciness without overpowering the flavors.
- → What is the best way to ensure pasta cooks evenly?
Simmer the dish covered on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta submerged and evenly cooked.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently to maintain creaminess and texture.