What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Smoked sausages like andouille or kielbasa provide a rich, smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, increasing Cajun seasoning or adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce can add more heat according to your taste.

Boil the penne in salted water until al dente, then drain and toss with the sauce to maintain texture.

Substitute smoked sausage with turkey or chicken sausage and consider using low-fat cream to reduce richness.

Yes, using gluten-free penne pasta allows this dish to be suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to balance the creamy sauce.

A creamy, spicy pasta dish combining smoky sausage, Cajun spices, and a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal ready in just 20 minutes.

This dish quickly became a family favorite quickly after the first time I made it.

Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
Sausage: 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage (e.g., andouille or kielbasa), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
Vegetables: 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped, 1 red bell pepper, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste), ¼ tsp black pepper, ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step 1:: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2:: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3 4 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
Step 3:: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, sauté onion and red bell pepper for 2 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4:: Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
Step 5:: Reduce heat to low, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and sauce is smooth.
Step 6:: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked penne and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice if desired.
Step 7:: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Making this meal always brings my family together and fills the house with wonderful aromas.

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Large pot for boiling pasta, large skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, grater for Parmesan.

Calories: 680, Total Fat: 42 g, Carbohydrates: 47 g, Protein: 26 g per serving.

This recipe is sure to be a hit whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

→ What type of sausage works best for this dish?: Smoked sausages like andouille or kielbasa provide a rich, smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
→ Can I adjust the spice level?: Yes, increasing Cajun seasoning or adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce can add more heat according to your taste.
→ How should I cook the penne pasta?: Boil the penne in salted water until al dente, then drain and toss with the sauce to maintain texture.
→ What alternatives are there for a lighter version?: Substitute smoked sausage with turkey or chicken sausage and consider using low-fat cream to reduce richness.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?: Yes, using gluten-free penne pasta allows this dish to be suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
→ What garnishes enhance the final presentation?: Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to balance the creamy sauce.