Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! This Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delightful blend of smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Louisiana. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet, cooking until beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies have softened and are fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
- Now, add the drained diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, during which it will thicken slightly and the flavors will meld beautifully.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, making sure to adjust the flavors to your liking.
- Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure it’s well coated in that luscious sauce. Heat through for a couple of minutes.
- Serve your Cajun sausage pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! You can add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for an extra nutrition boost. If you’re looking for some spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. This recipe also refrigerates well, so enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the art of sautéing, where we brown the sausage to create a depth of flavor, and then build upon that with fresh vegetables and aromatic garlic. The simmering process allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to develop, making every bite a scrumptious experience!
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less seasoning and add more as you taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage and sauce in advance, then just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve. Combine everything just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Cajun Sausage Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it will surely become a staple in your dinner rotation. So gather your loved ones, serve up a big bowl, and enjoy every last bite together. Happy cooking!