This creamy Cajun sausage pasta is a delightful mix of flavorful sausage and pasta, all wrapped in a rich and spicy sauce. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy dinner!
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up. I mean, who doesn’t enjoy a tasty meal that can be made in under 30 minutes? Plus, leftovers are super yummy too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using rotini for this recipe, as its twists hold the sauce well. However, you could swap it for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if desired.
Cajun Sausage: The smoked Cajun sausage gives an amazing flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage is a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, try using smoked tempeh or your favorite meat alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, half-and-half works nicely. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a plant-based cream can be tasty alternatives too.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar, feel free to use pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. You can also mix different cheeses to create your own blend!
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Browned?
Getting that nice brown texture on the sausage adds flavor to the dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the sausage to avoid steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the pieces space to brown properly.
- Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping to develop a nice crust.
Following these steps will ensure your sausage has a great color and flavor, leading to a delicious pasta dish!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any preferred pasta)
For the Sausage:
- 1 lb smoked Cajun sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time cooking the pasta and sausage, making the creamy sauce, and combining everything. It’s a quick and tasty meal—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced Cajun sausage. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes until it’s nicely browned on both sides. After that, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir to combine everything. Next, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir all this together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Combine Everything:
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it has fully melted, making the sauce smooth and creamy. Then, add the cooked pasta and the browned sausage back into the skillet, tossing everything together to make sure the pasta is coated evenly in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy this rich, comforting, and flavorful creamy Cajun sausage pasta!
This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and is perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Any Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked Cajun sausage is recommended for the authentic flavor, you can substitute it with andouille sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian option like tempeh. Just keep in mind that different sausages may alter the overall taste of the dish.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, although the sauce may be a bit thinner. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or almond milk can work well, but be aware that they will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help restore its creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like it spicy, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or even a pinch of red pepper flakes when mixing in the sauce. You can also use spicy sausage for an extra kick!