If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible creaminess, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe. Combining spicy andouille sausage with tender gluten-free penne, sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and a dreamy, luscious sauce made from cream cheese and Cajun spices, this pasta becomes a comfort meal you’ll want to make over and over. It’s a vibrant, hearty, and satisfying dish that effortlessly comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings where you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the smoky sausage to the colorful bell peppers and creamy sauce, these simple components come together for an unforgettable meal.
- 13 oz. andouille sausage links: Adds a smoky, spicy element that’s key for that authentic Cajun kick.
- 6 oz. fresh baby bella mushrooms: Provide an earthy flavor and tender bite that balances the spice.
- ½ medium red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
- ½ medium yellow bell pepper: Adds a mild, fruity sweetness contrasting the spices.
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 12 oz. gluten-free penne pasta: The perfect al dente base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
- ½ cup canned, diced fire-roasted tomatoes: Introduce subtle smokiness and a touch of acidity to balance richness.
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base for the pasta to cook in and meld flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix: Packs the bold heat and distinctive Southern spices that define the dish.
- 7 oz. cream cheese: The secret to that irresistibly creamy, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors for a perfectly seasoned meal.
- Fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped: Adds fresh herbal notes and a pop of green at the finish.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who want an extra spicy kick on top.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage medallions and sear them on both sides until they develop a beautiful crispy surface, about 4 minutes total. This step renders flavorful sausage oil that forms the base for cooking the vegetables and boosting the overall taste. Once cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside on paper towels to keep warm, but don’t discard the sausage oil in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet with the reserved sausage oil, toss in the sliced mushrooms, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 3 minutes until the mushrooms start browning and the peppers soften just slightly. This quick sauté enhances their natural flavors while soaking up those smoky sausage juices.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids
Next, add the gluten-free penne pasta right into the skillet along with the diced fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning mix. Gently stir everything together to combine. This mixture will cook the pasta while infusing it with bold flavors and a hint of smoky sweetness from the tomatoes.
Step 4: Simmer the Pasta
Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the pasta simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes. Be sure to stir the pasta every couple of minutes. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking until the pasta is tender but still has that perfect al dente bite.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream Cheese
When the pasta is cooked through, break the cream cheese into chunks and stir it into the skillet. The cream cheese melts smoothly, transforming the sauce into a thick, creamy coating that clings to the noodles and vegetables. This step is where the magic happens, providing that luscious texture everyone will love.
Step 6: Combine Sausage and Season
Return the cooked sausage medallions to the pan and stir to combine everything well and heat through. Taste the sauce and add salt as needed to balance and brighten all the flavors. The sausage reintroduces its smoky heat, making the dish perfectly bold and rich.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, garnish your pasta with chopped fresh Italian parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. Sprinkle on red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit more heat. Serve this warm, creamy, spicy creation immediately to savor all its delicious layers of flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh Italian parsley is ideal for garnish because it adds bright herbal notes that cut through the richness. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings a bit of extra heat if you’re feeling adventurous, while a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper can add subtle complexity. These simple touches elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads like a tangy arugula or mixed greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli add texture contrasts without overwhelming the bold pasta flavors. For bread lovers, a warm slice of garlic bread or crusty baguette is perfect to mop up the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic yet charming look, serve the pasta directly in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of parsley on top. To impress guests, consider plating with a sprig of fresh thyme or a few edible flowers for color pops. You can also add avocado slices beside the pasta for creaminess or serve in mini cast-iron skillets for a cozy, hearty vibe that’s sure to wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare because this dish disappears quickly), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The creamy pasta holds up well for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind the sauce may thicken as it chills.
Freezing
Freezing this pasta is possible but not ideal because cream cheese-based sauces can sometimes change texture once thawed. If you want to freeze it, cool the pasta completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce back to that creamy consistency. Heating slowly ensures the sausage remains tender and the sauce stays smooth.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Absolutely! Regular penne or any pasta shape you prefer works wonderfully in this recipe. The key is to cook it al dente to maintain the right texture alongside the creamy sauce and spicy sausage.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe has a pleasant kick thanks to the Cajun seasoning and optional red pepper flakes. If you’re sensitive to spice, simply reduce the seasoning slightly or omit the red pepper flakes when serving.
Can I substitute the sausage?
Yes, chicken sausage or smoked turkey sausage can be great alternatives if you want a leaner option while keeping smoky, savory flavors. Just adjust cooking times as needed depending on the sausage’s thickness.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, try cream, mascarpone, or even a combination of heavy cream with a bit of grated Parmesan. These alternatives will still give you a silky, creamy sauce though the flavor profile may vary slightly.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, replace the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese or coconut cream. Use a dairy-free cooking spray or oil to sauté instead of butter if you prefer. The Cajun spices and sausage provide plenty of flavor, so the swap works surprisingly well!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe is one of those incredible meals that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly. The blend of spicy sausage, tender veggies, and rich, creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you give this recipe a try, it’s bound to become your go-to for a hearty, flavorful pasta night that never disappoints.
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Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring spicy andouille sausage, sautéed vegetables, and gluten-free penne pasta all cooked together in a rich, creamy Cajun-seasoned sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it balances spicy, savory, and creamy elements in a comforting one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 13 oz. andouille sausage links (about 4 links), sliced into medallions
Vegetables
- 6 oz. fresh baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and thinly sliced
- ½ medium red bell pepper, stemmed, seeds removed, and thinly sliced
- ½ medium yellow bell pepper, stemmed, seeds removed, and thinly sliced
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
Pasta and Liquids
- 12 oz. gluten-free penne pasta
- ½ cup (120 g) canned, diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- 3 ½ cups (830 ml) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons no-salt or low-salt Cajun seasoning mix
- 7 oz. cream cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook sausage: Heat a large skillet or braiser over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage medallions and sear on both sides until they develop a slight crisp and release flavorful oil, about 4 minutes total. Remove the sausage and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep the sausage oil in the pan.
- Cook veggies: In the same skillet with the sausage oil, add the sliced mushrooms, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the mushrooms start to brown and the vegetables soften slightly.
- Add pasta and liquids: Add the gluten-free penne pasta, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
- Simmer pasta: Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the broth mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let the pasta simmer uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Cook until the pasta is tender and al dente.
- Add cream cheese: Break the cream cheese into chunks and stir it into the skillet until it is completely melted and incorporated, creating a thick, creamy sauce coating the pasta and vegetables.
- Combine sausage and season: Return the cooked sausage medallions to the skillet, add salt to taste, and stir well to combine and heat through evenly.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped Italian parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun pasta.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- Using gluten-free penne makes this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lactose-free version.
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth and Cajun seasoning.
- Stir the pasta frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
