Spicy Sausage Cajun Pasta
This Spicy Sausage Cajun Pasta combines tender pasta, juicy sausage, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy, zesty sauce that's sure to please everyone's taste buds.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 8 ounces penne pasta or any pasta of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for browning the sausage
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced for added flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced adds depth of flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream for the creamy sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth can use low-sodium if preferred
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for sweetness
- 1 cup shredded Cajun-flavored cheese optional, for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Brown the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add spicy Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables
- Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Add Liquid Ingredients
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a low simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Pasta
- Gently fold in cooked penne pasta and halved cherry tomatoes. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary, stirring until well coated.
Serve
- If desired, sprinkle Cajun-flavored cheese on top and let it melt. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Choose high-quality sausage for best flavor. You can customize the spice level by adjusting the Cajun seasoning. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.