Description
This quick and delicious Cajun sausage pasta is ready in just 30 minutes, offering a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb smoked turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper, sauté for 2-3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and drained tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3-5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Gradually stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Toss in the cooked penne pasta until fully coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Feel free to adjust spice levels or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg