Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

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This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the kind of comforting dinner that wraps you in warmth and flavor. Juicy, seared sausage slices paired with tender pasta, all cloaked in a luscious Cajun-spiced cream sauce. It hits that perfect balance of spicy and creamy, making it an easy weeknight winner or a crowd-pleasing weekend indulgence.

Every bite delivers the savory punch of smoked sausage, mellowed out by a velvety cream base and speckled with hints of garlic, Parmesan, and just the right amount of heat. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes and comes together quickly in one pan.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Smoked sausage
• Fettuccine or penne pasta
• Heavy cream
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides. This step enhances the flavor and adds a bit of crispy texture. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and a touch more olive oil if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute, being careful not to burn it. Stir in Cajun seasoning, allowing it to toast slightly for extra depth.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir well to combine with the seasonings and garlic. Add in grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce and thicken it to a silky consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil your pasta of choice in salted water until al dente. Drain, but reserve a bit of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the sausage to the skillet with the sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the sausage is warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley and a crack of black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This pasta is best served fresh, right out of the skillet when the sauce is at its creamiest and the sausage is still crisp at the edges. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full meal that feels both hearty and balanced.

For storing, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to keep the sauce from separating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, linguine, or even spaghetti will work. Just choose a shape that can hold the sauce well.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Mix and adjust to taste.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild kick. To dial down the heat, reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a milder sausage.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the cream with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free Parmesan. Note that the texture might vary slightly.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can replace the sausage if desired. Adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Can I freeze this pasta?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with added cream.

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