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Creamy One-Pot Cajun Sausage and Penne Pasta

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A quick and easy one-pot pasta dish featuring smoky Cajun sausage, penne pasta, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces Andouille sausage, sliced (or spicy smoked sausage)
  • 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta (regular or whole wheat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced Andouille sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp on the edges.
  2. Add diced onion and bell peppers to the sausage. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in Cajun seasoning and toast for about 1 minute to bring out smoky, spicy notes.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add uncooked penne pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
  5. Cover skillet with a lid and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most broth is absorbed. Add water or broth if too dry.
  6. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until sauce is silky and coats pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Brown the sausage well to build flavor. Toast Cajun seasoning after veggies soften to enhance smoky depth. Stir gently after adding cream to avoid curdling. Adjust liquid as needed to keep sauce saucy. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or milk to loosen sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun sausage pasta, one-pot pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meal, Andouille sausage, penne pasta, Cajun seasoning

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/creamy-one-pot-cajun-sausage-and-penne-pasta-easy-recipe-for-busy-weeknights/