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Creamy Cajun Beef Sausage Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 108 reviews

This Creamy Cajun Beef Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and quick meal combining smoky Andouille or kielbasa sausage with tender pasta, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it’s made in one pot for easy cleanup and packed with bold, southern-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Sausage and Vegetables

  • 10 ounces smoked beef sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Pasta

  • 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked beef sausage and sear for 5-7 minutes until browned and flavorful. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Sauté Vegetables and Spice: Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and onions turn translucent. Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper, toasting the spices for about 30 seconds to enhance their aroma.
  3. Cook the Pasta in Broth: Add the uncooked pasta and pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the broth is mostly absorbed.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy and smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add more chicken broth to reach the desired consistency. Return the browned sausage to the pot and mix well.
  5. Finish and Serve: If using fresh spinach, stir it in until wilted. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy Cajun sausage pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute the smoked beef sausage with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
  • Adding fresh spinach is optional but highly recommended for added nutrients and color.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and verify that the sausage and seasoning blends are gluten-free.

Find it online: https://mealsbykate.com/creamy-cajun-beef-sausage-pasta-recipe/