This Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and spicy delight! With juicy smoked sausage and a rich Alfredo sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love how the flavors come together, making each bite a little party in my mouth. Plus, it takes just a little time to whip up, so it’s great for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine is the classic choice for creamy sauces, but you can use any pasta you like! Penne or rigatoni work well too. Just be mindful of cooking times according to the package.
Cajun Smoked Sausage: This adds a spicy kick! If you can’t find Cajun sausage, you can substitute with andouille sausage or any spicy sausage. For a lighter option, turkey sausage would also work.
Heavy Cream: It’s essential for that rich, creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter texture, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Just note that the flavor will slightly change.
Parmesan Cheese: A must for that depth of flavor! You can swap this with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a cheese-like flavor!
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the sausage properly sets the tone for the dish. Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and adding olive oil right before your sausage goes in. This method helps to get that nice golden-brown crust!
- Let the sausage sit for a few moments before stirring to allow it to brown properly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if you have too much sausage at once, it will steam instead of get that delicious sear.
- Keep the heat consistent; too low, and it won’t brown, too high, and it might burn.
Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb Cajun smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
Vegetables:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes around 30 minutes to make! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping, and then around 20 minutes cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water and add the fettuccine. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Cajun smoked sausage and cook them for about 4-5 minutes, until they’re nicely browned on both sides. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. Cook these for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to create that creamy sauce! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit. Taste and add salt and black pepper according to your liking.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage and the pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. Make sure each piece gets some love!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a dash of black pepper for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it up hot and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can easily substitute it with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding a bit more Cajun seasoning or some red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce at the end to kick up the spice level.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. For the cheese, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if needed.
