Pin it A creamy, spicy one-pot pasta dish featuring smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun Alfredo sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this Cajun Spiced Smoked Sausage Alfredo on a chilly Wednesday when my family wanted something filling yet flavorful. Since then, it has become a regular favorite for busy evenings because everyone loves the combination of smoky sausage and spicy cream sauce.
Ingredients
- Sausage < Vegetables: 14 oz (400 g) smoked sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds, 1 medium yellow onion, diced, 1 medium red bell pepper, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pasta < Liquids: 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or other short pasta), 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- Cheeses: 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Seasonings: 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste), ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Brown 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 Seasonings:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Pasta < 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.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish < Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Pin it After sharing this meal, my family often gathers around the table, enjoying seconds and swapping stories. Its comforting and spicy flavors encourage everyone to linger a little longer together.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 680. Total Fat: 38 g. Carbohydrates: 54 g. Protein: 29 g.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Pin it This Cajun Alfredo makes the perfect dinner for busy nights and is sure to impress at the table. Enjoy every spicy, cheesy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage can be substituted for a lighter flavor without compromising the dish’s core taste.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and sausage do not contain gluten ingredients to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What level of spiciness does this dish have?
The Cajun seasoning adds moderate heat; for extra spiciness, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed freshly made, but leftovers can be stored refrigerated and gently reheated while stirring to maintain creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crisp green salads and garlic bread complement the creamy, bold flavors of the sausage pasta beautifully.