# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Meats
02 - 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce
07 - 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
13 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
# Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned.
03 - Add red bell pepper and yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Reduce heat to medium and pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 2 minutes.
05 - Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
06 - Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with sauce. Heat for 1–2 minutes until thoroughly warmed.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice if desired. Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if preferred.
