Are you hunting for an easy creamy pasta recipe tonight? Don’t worry!
Today, I’m here to revive some memories with you and make mouthwatering dish. Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, one-pot dish using only 5 ingredients. It’s easy to make in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With its customizable options, you can make it mild or spicy—it will all work here!
I was raised in Louisiana, and my whole childhood was spent looking and eating Cajun Sausage Pasta. Therefore, I can say, “No one here is more Cajun than me.” I don’t know about you all, but I love Cajun food. My Cajun version completely differs from someone else’s recipe, but we’ll disrespect that part. Ok, Sorry, haha!
What exactly is Cajun food?
History is always complex. Cajun cuisine is said to originate from Louisiana but is prepared with traditional French techniques, using a wide variety of ingredients. It is famous for its bold flavors, smoked meats, seafood, and aromatic seasonings like paprika, garlic, and cayenne, which make it unique.
Cajun Sausage Pasta fills the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine into a quick and satisfying pasta treat.
Why This Cajun Sausage Pasta Stands Out
- Easy and quick: This recipe is straightforward and fast; it only takes 30 minutes to prepare this delicious pasta dish.
- Creamy and light: This pasta dish is smooth and creamy in texture using heavy cream, which maintains a balance of cream and lightness.
- Packed with flavors: the harmonious blend of ingredients comprises the smoky taste of the sausages and the bold-spiced kick of Cajun seasoning.
- Tastes like restaurant quality: The meat and pasta combo is equally popular among kids and adults. It tastes like restaurant-quality, which makes it a family-friendly choice.
My family loves creamy and spicy pasta dishes, and this Cajun sausage pasta has become a quick favorite.
The dish’s texture looks rich and calorie-dense and it is made with heavy cream. This makes it the best lighter option for those who are calorie-conscious. The satisfying cajun-flavored sauce has light cream cheese and low-fat cheddar, yet it’s still delicious.”
How To Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?
Needed Ingredients & Suggestions
- Penne pasta: Penne pasta and any pasta are excellent places to start.The shape selection is up to you, but penne pasta is a reliable option because its shape holds sauces well, making this dish’s texture more attractive.
Suggestion: This recipe is flexible and customizable according to personal preferences. If someone is catering with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free pasta without compromising taste.
2. Sausages: I used a mild Italian sausage in this pasta. If you like to tone up the heat, try Cajun-style andouille sausage, which brings a spicy kick to this recipe. Cut into coins or bite-sized pieces.
Suggestion: For a vegan diet, use vegan andouille sausage. Be aware that many vegan sausages on the market are not gluten-free.
3. Olive oil: For this dish, you only need a splash of olive oil to cook the sausage.
Suggestion: Since the sausage has enough fat, you can skip this step using a non-stick pan.
4. Cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning is also used to add heat. I use the quick and easy way with a store-bought cajun seasoning mix, but you could make and use a homemade cajun seasoning blend.
If a store-bought Cajun seasoning blend lists salt as its first ingredient, do not use it; otherwise, you will have a very salty plate of pasta.
Suggestion: Feel free to use more or less seasoning than I suggest in the recipe. Always choose a cajun spice mix that’s low in salt for this recipe.
5. Garlic: Garlic is a crucial ingredient for creamy pasta sauces. Use freshly sliced garlic for this Cajun sausage pasta recipe because it brings a fresher flavor and aroma. Don’t hesitate to adjust the quantity to your liking.
- Veggies: Finely chopped red or orange bell peppers and shallots bring mild flavor and cook quickly.
Suggestion: Broccoli or cauliflower florets would also be outstanding for this recipe.
6. Fire-roasted tomatoes: I often use fire-roasted tomatoes to add a smoky, charred flavor. I love the smokey sweetness in my Cajun Sausage Pasta recipe, but regular canned diced tomatoes will also work if you’re in a pinch.
Suggestion: Don’t think twice about using regular diced tomatoes or store-bought jarred sauce for this dish.
7. 7 oz Heavy Cream: This game-changer ingredient elevates the sauce to the next taste level. I made the sauce using 7 oz of heavy cream, but feel free to add more or less. This ingredient lets you decide how to unleash your creamy pasta sauce goals.
Suggestion: You can substitute it with cream cheese or vegan cream cheese.
8. Oregano: Dried oregano balances the cajun seasoning quite nicely.
Suggestion: You can replace dried oregano leaves with fresh ones. The tip is to use two times the quantity of dried oregano.
9. Parmesan: The final ingredient is that it’s always best to grate your Parmesan cheese using a fine grater.
Ingredients Table with Quantity:
For a complete list of ingredients and quantities, see the recipe table.
| Ingredients | Quatity |
| Pasta | 10.5 oz (300 g) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Pork or beef sausages | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Veggies | 1(Shallot+Bell-pepper) chopped |
| Dried oregano | ½ tablespoon |
| Cajun seasoning | 3 tablespoons |
| Dried-tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup (100 g) |
| Parmesan | ⅓ cup (30 g) grated |
Step-by-step Instructions:
Step 1:
Bring a large skillet of water to a boil, salt generously, and cook the pasta (about 8-11 minutes) al dente according to the package instructions—reserve 2-3 cups of pasta water before draining for later use.
Step 2:
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large deep pan and fry the sausage for 4-5 minutes over medium heat. Be sure the sausage is sliced evenly, and avoid breaking it with your spoon.
Step 3:
Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped shallot and red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until the veggies soften.
After that, stir in the garlic, dried oregano, and Cajun seasoning and cook for another minute. Keep the heat medium to low.
Step 5:
Add Heavy Cream and stir until melted.
Final Step:
Transfer the cooked pasta to the serving dish and toss to cover in the sauce. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, season to taste, and serve immediately.
Ta Ta Da! Fresh Cajun sausage Pasta is ready with a smoky touch. Yum Yum!
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, creamy & simple (my way)|
What to Eat with Cajun Sausage Pasta?
This pasta is a staple in our house. We never get enough of it. It’s perfect for a quick, hassle-free meal with bold flavors. We mainly serve it with a healthy touch, like green salad beans, salad, and garlic bread. Give it a chance the next time you need a quick-satisfying weeknight meal!
Optional Add-Ins:
- Shrimp: This is an ideal option for seafood lovers, as half the sausage is replaced with cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Spicy Variations: You can adjust the spice from mild to hot, add Andouille sausage, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- Cook the pasta evenly to prevent it from becoming mushy. It just needs to be al dente to absorb the sauce perfectly.
- You can add leftover roast chicken to this dish for extra protein.
- To cut down on calories, I often use turkey-smoked sausage. It tastes great and is no different from regular smoked sausage.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
How to Store Leftover Cajun Pasta
- Refrigerate: Pasta leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: I never recommend freezing this sausage pasta.
- Reheat: You can reheat them in the microwave or stovetop in a skillet over medium heat. If there’s not enough liquid left, you may need to add cheese and a splash of broth.
Final Thoughts:
At Pastasphere, food brings joy and comfort to those who share it. A recipe like Cajun Sausage Pasta holds a special place in our hearts. Save this recipe for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. The vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and attractive presentation will also make it a favorite in your household. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, smoky bite! Happy cooking!
Frequently asked questions
What type of sausage can I use for Cajun sausage pasta?
You can use a variety of sausages. Mild Italian sausage, like smoked and chicken sausage, goes well for spice deserter. Try Cajun-style andouille sausage to bring the spicy kick to this recipe.
What else can I use in this recipe besides sausage?
This versatile recipe is delicious with chicken, prawns, shrimp, or crayfish. Try a combination such as chicken and shrimp.
Can I prep this creamy cajun sausage pasta for a meal?
Of course, Cook the recipe according to the instructions, divide it into separate airtight containers, and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat and enjoy when ready to eat.
