Cajun Pasta Recipe with Sausage

Introduction

Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner idea? Look no further than this delicious Cajun pasta recipe with sausage! Packed with bold flavors and comforting spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this recipe is a winner. So let’s get cookin’!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:

• 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine work great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound spicy Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and paprika to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything is well incorporated. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it spicy, you can add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
8. Serve the Cajun pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Andouille sausage is traditional in Cajun cuisine, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Spicy Italian or chorizo would be great alternatives.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, as the pasta can become soggy if reheated. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this Cajun pasta by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of heavy cream. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables for added flavor.

Q: How spicy is this Cajun pasta?
A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste. The Andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning add some heat, but you can add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.

Q: What can I serve with Cajun pasta?
A: This pasta pairs well with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or some sautéed vegetables. You can also serve it as a main course on its own.

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy this flavorful Cajun pasta with sausage and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Bon appétit!