Description
This comforting one-pot Cajun pasta combines smoky beef or turkey sausage with tender penne in a rich, velvety cream sauce. Infused with bold Cajun spices and caramelized bell peppers and onions, this dish offers a perfect balance of smoky heat and creamy satisfaction. It is a quick, thirty-minute weeknight dinner that delivers high-impact flavor with minimal cleanup, making it a reliable staple for any busy home cook craving a taste of Louisiana-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
12 oz smoked beef or turkey sausage, sliced into rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb penne pasta
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced sausage and brown well for 5 minutes.
Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are soft and caramelized.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning.
Add the dry penne pasta and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
Cook for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmering for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use a high-quality Cajun seasoning blend for the best results. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. If the sauce is too thick, stir in an extra splash of broth or cream before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Meals
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun-inspired