Cajun Sausage Pasta
A flavorful and creamy pasta dish combining smoked sausage with Cajun spices and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 8 oz penne pasta Cook according to package instructions
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced Choose your preferred type of smoked sausage
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust according to spice preference
- 1 cup heavy cream For a richer sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack) Use your favorite cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil For cooking
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic, then sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning and let it cook for one minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
- Mix in the cooked penne pasta and combine well.
- Lastly, stir in the shredded cheese until melted, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or green onions if desired.
Notes
To enhance the dish, consider pairing it with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture ahead of time for a quicker dinner.