Save A creamy, spicy one-pot pasta dish featuring smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this after craving comfort food on a rainy weeknight and it instantly became a staple in our home. The sausage adds heartiness, while the Cajun seasoning gives just the right kick.
Ingredients
- Sausage & Vegetables: 14 oz (400 g) smoked sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds, 1 medium yellow onion diced, 1 medium red bell pepper diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Pasta & Liquids: 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or other short pasta), 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- Cheeses: 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Seasonings: 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste), ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Brown Sausage:
- Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes stirring occasionally until browned.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add Garlic & Cajun Seasoning:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Pasta & Liquids:
- Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. Stir well ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–14 minutes stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish Sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season & Garnish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Save This sausage Alfredo quickly became our go-to dinner when time is short but flavor is a must. Everyone enjoys customizing their bowl with extra Parmesan or a touch of cayenne.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cream, Parmesan cheese), wheat (pasta), and possibly soy. Always check sausage and broth ingredients for hidden allergens or gluten.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 680 calories, 38 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein
Save This Cajun Alfredo is guaranteed to spice up your weeknight routine. Enjoy leftovers reheated with a splash of cream for second-day perfection.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage sliced into rounds adds a smoky, savory depth, but turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter option.
- → Can I use other pasta types?
Yes, short pasta like penne or rigatoni works well as it holds the sauce and cooks evenly in one pot.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The dish has a moderate heat from the Cajun seasoning, with optional smoked paprika for extra smokiness; add cayenne for more kick.
- → Is it gluten-free adaptable?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sausage and broth contain no gluten to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → What garnishes enhance flavor?
Fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbaceous note, while extra Parmesan cheese boosts the creamy, savory profile.