Description
This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining smoky turkey sausage, tender penne pasta, and a rich, creamy Cajun-seasoned sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal, all ingredients cook together in a single pot, making for easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Dry Goods and Seasonings
- 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté sausage and veggies: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked turkey sausage, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables have softened.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its aroma to release without burning.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the pasta: Stir in the uncooked 12 ounces of penne pasta. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.
- Finish with cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, giving the dish its rich texture and depth of flavor.
Notes
- Use smoked turkey sausage for a leaner alternative to traditional sausage.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini if preferred.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level; add more for extra heat.
- If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta cooks, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
