Description

Imagine this: you’re craving something with a little kick, a lot of flavor, and enough comfort to make you forget your troubles. That’s exactly what this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta delivers. We’re talking smoky andouille sausage, perfectly seasoned with that holy trinity of Cajun cooking (onions, bell peppers, celery), all swimming in a rich, creamy sauce that’s got just enough heat to make your taste buds dance. It’s like New Orleans decided to have a pasta party, and honestly? We’re all invited. My spice-loving sister declared this “dangerously addictive,” and my usually picky brother-in-law went back for thirds. When you can make a grown man abandon his dignity for pasta, you know you’ve got something special.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta & Sausage:

1 lb penne or rigatoni pasta
1 lb andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Cajun Magic:

2 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

For the Creamy Goodness:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp tomato paste

For the Finishing Touch:

1/2 cup reserved pasta water
2 green onions, sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra parmesan for serving
Hot sauce for the brave souls

Instructions

Step 1: Get That Pasta Going

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

Set pasta aside — we’ll reunite it with the sauce soon.

Step 2: Sausage Time

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned and crispy on both sides (about 5-6 minutes).

Transfer sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving all those delicious drippings in the pan.

Step 3: Build That Flavor Base

In the same pan with the sausage drippings, add another tbsp of olive oil if needed.

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery (the holy trinity!).

Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables start to soften.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Mix all the Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.

Add the seasoning mixture to the vegetables and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Create That Creamy Magic

Add butter to the pan and let it melt.

Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Gradually whisk in chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.

Add tomato paste and whisk until smooth.

Stir in drained diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Make It Creamy Dreams

Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream and softened cream cheese.

Stir until cream cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.

Add grated parmesan and stir until melted.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage back to the pan.

Toss everything together until pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning — more salt? More heat? You’re the boss.

Step 8: Serve and Savor

Transfer to serving bowls and top with sliced green onions, fresh parsley, and extra parmesan.

Serve immediately with hot sauce on the side for those who like to live dangerously.

Notes

Serve with crusty French bread for soaking up every drop of sauce
A simple green salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness
Perfect with a cold beer or a glass of white wine
Great for date night or when you want to impress without the stress

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~685 kcal
Fat: ~42g
Carbohydrates: ~52g
Protein: ~28g