Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Skillet

• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
• 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Steps

1. 1 In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned.
2. 2 Remove sausage and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened.
3. 3 Add pasta to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes.
4. 4 Pour in chicken broth and stir in 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
5. 5 Stir in heavy cream and cooked sausage. Season with remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. 6 Simmer gently until sauce thickens. Stir in parsley and Parmesan if using.
7. 7 Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Variations

• Add shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Pairings

• A zesty Caesar salad
• A chilled glass of Chardonnay

Nutrition

Tips

• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread.
• Serve with a side of cornbread for a hearty meal.

FAQ