Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite Cajun sausage or spicy smoked sausage, sliced
- 3 cups (about 300 g) of penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or deep pan. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook over medium heat until browned and slightly crispy.
- Stir in chopped onions and sliced red bell peppers. Cook until tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last minute.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and vegetables. Pour enough water to cover the pasta, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until al dente, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or salad.
Notes
- Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing milder sausage options if desired.
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
- Diet: Dairy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 650 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: Forty g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg