Flavorful Cajun Pasta with Sausage Recipe Perfect for Dinner

Name: Flavorful Cajun Pasta with Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta; 8 ounces smoked sausage (e.g., andouille or kielbasa), sliced; 1 cup diced red bell pepper; 1 cup diced green bell pepper; 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Posted on November 9, 2025

Picture this: a steaming bowl of creamy, spicy Cajun pasta that’s bursting with bold flavors—perfectly cooked penne, chunks of smoky sausage, and a sauce that’s so rich and luscious, you’ll want to lick the spoon. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble, and the taste? Absolutely divine. Trust me, this is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a little celebration every single time you make it.

The first time I whipped up this recipe, it was on a rainy Sunday evening, and I was craving something comforting yet exciting. I wanted that perfect balance of spicy and creamy, with the kind of flavors that make you close your eyes and savor every bite. My family couldn’t get enough—they kept asking for seconds, and even my pickiest eater was sneaking bites straight from the pan. That’s when I knew I had a winner!

Over the years, this Cajun pasta with sausage has become a staple in our home. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy enough for a casual Tuesday night but impressive enough for when guests are over. And honestly, you’ll love how quickly it comes together—because let’s face it, we all need a recipe that’s delicious without taking hours to prepare. So, grab your favorite skillet, and let’s make this comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to become one of your go-to dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Big on flavor: The combination of Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and smoky sausage creates a bold, unforgettable taste.
Simple ingredients: No fancy shopping trips necessary—this recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
Versatile: Great for dinner parties, date nights, or meal prep. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your taste preferences.
Family-approved: Even picky eaters love it. My kids clean their plates every time!

What makes this Cajun pasta stand out is the perfectly balanced spice blend and the way the creamy sauce wraps around the pasta and sausage, creating a dish that’s indulgent without being heavy. It’s the kind of meal that feels like pure comfort food but with a kick of excitement. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavors and a creamy texture without any hassle. Here’s what you’ll need:

Penne pasta: You can use any pasta you like, but penne works beautifully to trap the creamy sauce in every bite.
Smoked sausage: Andouille is perfect for that authentic Cajun flavor, but kielbasa or any smoked sausage will work well.
Bell peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow for a pop of color and sweet crunch.
Onion: Adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that aromatic kick.
Cajun seasoning: The heart of this dish! Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Heavy cream: For a rich and creamy sauce that ties everything together.
Chicken broth: Adds flavor and thins out the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, cheesy finish.
Olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and sausage.
Salt and black pepper: To enhance all the amazing flavors.

If you’re missing any ingredients, don’t worry! You can adapt the recipe easily. Swap the sausage for chicken or shrimp, use milk instead of cream for a lighter version, or try gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Cajun pasta:

Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
Deep skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet or a large sauté pan works perfectly for cooking the sauce and sausage.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring everything together.
Colander: To drain the pasta.

If you don’t have a deep skillet, a regular frying pan will do, though you might need to transfer the sauce to a larger pot to mix with the pasta later. For the cheese grating, a simple hand grater is ideal, but pre-grated Parmesan works in a pinch.

Preparation Method

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
Add the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it heat through, then add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your Cajun pasta turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and Parmesan really make a difference in flavor, so avoid pre-minced or shelf-stable alternatives.
Balance the spice: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat levels, so taste as you go to ensure the spice level suits your preference.
Reserve pasta water: It’s a secret weapon for achieving a silky sauce without it being too thick.
Mix well: Toss the pasta thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.

If your sauce ends up too thick, add more chicken broth or pasta water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for another minute or two to thicken.

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to customize this recipe:

Protein swaps: Switch out the sausage for shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spice level: Add extra cayenne pepper for more heat or dial it back by using a milder Cajun spice blend.
Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free variation.
Seasonal veggies: Swap the bell peppers for zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach based on what’s in season.

Personally, I love adding a handful of cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of freshness. It really brightens up the dish!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Cajun pasta is best served hot, straight out of the skillet. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top and serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad on the side. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea for the perfect dinner.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. Trust me, though—it’s so good, it probably won’t last long enough to freeze anyway!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for this recipe:

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: High protein from sausage and Parmesan cheese
Carbohydrates: Moderate due to the pasta base
Fats: A good balance of healthy fats from olive oil and cream

The bell peppers and garlic add a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, while the protein from the sausage and cheese helps keep you satisfied. If you’re watching your carb intake, you can swap out regular pasta for a low-carb or gluten-free version.

Conclusion

This Flavorful Cajun Pasta with Sausage recipe is a guaranteed hit that’s worth adding to your meal rotation. It’s bold, comforting, and easy to make—perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Did you try any fun variations? Leave a comment below or share your creations with me—I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even rigatoni for this recipe.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning can range from mild to very spicy depending on the brand. Taste as you go and adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the sausage and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini instead. You can even use plant-based sausage for a similar flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Cook the pasta and mix it in just before serving.

What can I serve with Cajun pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. For drinks, try a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Pin This Recipe!

cajun pasta recipe