This Easy Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delicious one-pot meal that packs a flavorful punch! With tasty sausage, creamy sauce, and a little kick from Cajun spices, it’s a winner!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up, perfect for busy nights. Plus, you can enjoy it while pretending you’re in New Orleans! Just don’t forget the garlic bread to soak up that creamy goodness. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta works great for this dish due to its fun shape. However, you can swap it with any pasta like penne, rotini, or spaghetti if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture!
Cajun Sausage: Andouille sausage gives that authentic Cajun flavor, but if you’re looking for alternatives, smoked sausage or chicken sausage can work too. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage!
Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness, but you could use half and half for a lighter version. Alternatively, coconut milk can add a unique flavor if you’re dairy-free.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano can give a similar taste. Adjust the spice level according to your taste!
How Do I Get the Sauce to Be Perfectly Creamy?
Creating a creamy sauce is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to achieve that velvety, rich texture:
- Start by using heavy cream—it’s thick and adds richness. If using a lighter option, reduce heat after adding to prevent curdling.
- Mix in chicken broth to thin the sauce while still keeping it creamy. The broth adds flavor without losing that delicious creaminess.
- Keep the heat relatively low after adding the cream to let it thicken gradually. Stir continuously for the best results.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your sauce is rich, creamy, and full of flavor every time you make this pasta dish!
Easy Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For The Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces Cajun sausage (e.g., Andouille sausage), sliced into rounds
- 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Quick, easy, and perfect for any weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them browned and a little crispy. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced bell pepper (if you’re using it). Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant—oh, it will smell amazing!
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream along with the chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Adding Flavor:
Next, add the Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combining Ingredients:
After the sauce has thickened, return the sautéed sausage to the skillet. Now, toss in the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Mixing with Pasta:
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Once everything is mixed well, remove the skillet from heat. Go ahead and garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if you like. It’s time to serve your delicious Cajun sausage pasta!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Any Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Cajun sausage like Andouille provides that authentic flavor, you can use smoked sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed based on the type you choose!
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to suit your taste. You can also add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the sauce on low and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
