Name: Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta; 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack); 2 tsp Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Why Make This Recipe

Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delicious blend of flavors that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, using hearty ingredients that create a satisfying meal. Whether you are cooking for family or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone with its spicy kick and creamy texture. Plus, it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

How to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta
1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for another 3-5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning and mix well.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve Cajun Sausage Pasta

Cajun Sausage Pasta is best served hot right after cooking. You can place it in bowls or on plates and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. It pairs well with a green salad or some crusty garlic bread to help soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Cajun Sausage Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store Cajun Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing the container. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.

Tips to Make Cajun Sausage Pasta

You can adjust the level of spice by choosing a mild or hot Cajun sausage.
Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a healthier twist.
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Variation

You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping the Cajun sausage for smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms. Just make sure to use a vegetarian Cajun seasoning for added flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and sauce a few hours in advance and mix it with the cooked pasta just before serving. However, it’s best to avoid adding the cheese until you are ready to serve it.