Pin This A creamy, spicy fusion of Cajun flavors and Italian comfort, featuring smoked sausage and penne pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying 20-minute meal.
This recipe has become a family favorite because it combines bold Cajun spices with smooth Alfredo sauce, making every bite comforting yet exciting.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- Meats: 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 red bell pepper sliced, 1 small yellow onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste), 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al denté. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 2–3 minutes, until browned.
- Step 3:
- Add the red bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 6:
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Heat for 1–2 minutes, until everything is hot and well combined.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pin This Sharing this meal with family always sparks lively conversations and warm memories as everyone enjoys the bold flavors together.
Notes
Make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Chef's knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Wooden spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 610. Total Fat: 36 g. Carbohydrates: 48 g. Protein: 25 g.
Pin This This dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and casual weekend dinners with family and friends.
Recipe Q&A
- → What kind of sausage pairs best in this dish?
Smoked sausage is recommended for its smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce, but turkey or andouille sausage can also be used for different profiles.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, adding extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper increases heat, while reducing spices will mellow the flavor.
- → What’s the best pasta to use here?
Penne pasta is ideal due to its shape, which holds the sauce well, but other tubular pastas like rigatoni can also work.
- → How can I lighten the dish?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce richness while maintaining creaminess in the sauce.
- → What fresh herbs enhance the dish?
Fresh parsley is used as a garnish for brightness and freshness, balancing the rich and spicy flavors.
- → What cooking tools are essential?
A large pot for boiling pasta and a skillet for sautéing ingredients and simmering sauce are needed for optimal results.