This creamy Cajun sausage pasta is a meal full of flavor! With juicy sausage, a touch of spice, and a rich sauce, it’s like a hug on a plate that warms you right up.
Honestly, the best part is how quick it is to whip up! Toss everything in one pot, and you’ve got a cozy dinner ready in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun choice for its butterfly shape, but any pasta you like will work. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Smoked Sausage: Andouille sausage adds a nice kick, but if you want a milder taste, look for smoked turkey sausage or kielbasa. You could also try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option!
Diced Tomatoes: For those who aren’t fans of tomatoes, you can substitute with fresh chopped bell peppers or use a can of diced green chilies for a different flavor. Just remember to keep some liquid in the dish!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, try half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. It might change the flavor a bit, but it’s still delicious!
Cajun Seasoning: No Cajun seasoning on hand? A homemade mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme will do the trick. Adjust the spices to suit your taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
A creamy sauce can be the highlight of your dish! To achieve that perfect texture, follow these steps:
- After adding the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps develop the flavor.
- When adding cream, lower the heat to avoid boiling, which can curdle the cream. Stir well to fully combine.
- Allow it to simmer longer to thicken slightly before mixing in the pasta. This will give you that nice, thick sauce.
Don’t forget to gradually add the cheese, stirring continuously for that creamy texture. If it feels too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille), sliced
Vegetables and Liquids:
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Extras:
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes cooking the pasta and sautéing the sausage and vegetables, then another 15 minutes for simmering and combining everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it smells wonderful.
4. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the Cajun seasoning. Let this mixture come to a simmer—this will help meld all those great flavors together!
5. Make It Creamy:
Once simmering, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Mix it well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken slightly, making it nice and creamy.
6. Combine Pasta and Sausage:
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta and the browned sausage back into the skillet. Stir until everything is well mixed and heated through—everything should be creamy and delicious!
7. Cheese It Up:
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your liking—taste it to make sure it’s perfect!
8. Serve:
Your creamy Cajun sausage pasta is ready to enjoy! If you’d like, garnish each serving with some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot and savor every bite.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Cajun sausage pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What If I Can’t Find Smoked Sausage?
If smoked sausage isn’t available, you can use other types like Italian sausage or even chicken sausage. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust any seasonings to enhance the flavor if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened up.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you like extra heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some crushed red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning to kick up the spice level to your taste.
