Save A creamy, spicy one-pot pasta dish featuring smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun Alfredo sauce is perfect for busy weeknights. Comforting and satisfying, this meal offers both convenience and robust flavor for families and friends alike.
I first made this Cajun spiced smoked sausage Alfredo when my family craved something hearty after a chilly day. The delicious aroma and creamy sauce won everyone over instantly.
Ingredients
- Smoked sausage: 14 oz (400 g) sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Penne pasta: 12 oz (340 g) or other short pasta
- Chicken broth: 4 cups (1 liter), low-sodium
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tablespoons, store-bought or homemade
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon, adjust to taste
- Smoked paprika: ¼ teaspoon, optional for extra smokiness
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh
- Extra Parmesan cheese: For serving
Instructions
- Brown the sausage:
- Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add aromatics:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add pasta and liquids:
- Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. Stir well, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season and garnish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Save Sharing this dish at the dinner table quickly turned into laughter and second helpings. It's now a favorite for family game nights and special occasions.
Required Tools
All you need is a large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid, a wooden spoon or spatula, and basic kitchen prep tools like a chefs knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cream, Parmesan cheese), wheat (pasta), and possibly soy (if present in sausage). Always check sausage and broth labels for hidden allergens or gluten.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 680 calories, 38 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save This spicy creamy pasta is pure comfort in a bowl. Store leftovers in the fridge for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the smoked sausage with another type?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter flavor while retaining the dish’s texture and protein.
- → What pasta type works best for this dish?
Penne or any short pasta that holds sauce well is ideal, ensuring even cooking and a creamy consistency.
- → Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free to adapt this dish accordingly.
- → How can I increase the spiciness?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce while cooking to boost the heat level to your preference.
- → What is the best way to achieve a creamy sauce?
Simmering the pasta in heavy cream and broth together and stirring in freshly grated Parmesan at the end creates a smooth and rich sauce.