Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish with a kick of bold Cajun flavors, this Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. Combining smoky and spicy andouille sausage with tender penne pasta, a creamy tomato sauce, and a golden cheesy crust, this meal is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want to enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake is a wonderful blend of creamy, spicy, and savory elements. The smoky sausage and vibrant Cajun seasoning bring a distinct southern charm, while the creamy tomato sauce wraps everything together perfectly. It’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to make but feels special enough for guests. Plus, using penne pasta ensures every bite holds just the right amount of sauce and cheese. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of bold spices, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Ingredient List

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large pot – to boil the pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking sausage and vegetables
• 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect for assembling and baking the pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
• Colander – to drain the pasta

Make Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken andouille sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Return the sausage to the skillet. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir until every piece is coated with the creamy, spicy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Use whole-wheat penne pasta to increase fiber content without sacrificing texture.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter creamy sauce.
• Incorporate extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrients and volume.
• Reduce cheese amounts or use part-skim mozzarella to lower saturated fat.
• Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.

What I Learned Testing

• The key to this bake’s depth is allowing the sauce to simmer long enough to thicken and let the spices infuse.
• Don’t overcook the pasta initially; al dente texture holds up best after baking.
• Using chicken andouille sausage delivers the perfect smoky heat while keeping the dish balanced.
• The cheese blend of mozzarella and Parmesan adds both gooey melt and a sharp finish.
• Fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness beautifully.

Save It for Later

This Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake is fantastic for making ahead and reheating. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly and reheat in the oven or microwave. For meal prep, portion into airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While chicken andouille sausage is ideal for its smoky Cajun flavor, you can substitute with turkey sausage or any smoked sausage you prefer. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding to the pasta.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate spice level, but it’s balanced by the creamy sauce. If you prefer more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the bake well. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is also perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream, and substitute cheese with vegan cheese options. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

More from the Kitchen

• Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta – Another quick and comforting pasta recipe with creamy goodness and savory sausage.
• Spicy Cajun Crawfish Pasta – Dive into a seafood twist with this fiery and flavorful Cajun pasta dish.
• Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake – For lovers of spicy and cheesy baked pasta, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Hungry for More?

If you adore dishes like this Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake, keep exploring recipes that blend creamy textures with bold spices and savory meats. From quick weeknight meals to indulgent bakes, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be discovered in your kitchen.

This pasta bake beautifully balances the smoky, spicy flavors of andouille sausage with a luscious, creamy tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re new to Cajun cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy bold southern flavors with the ease of a cozy pasta bake. Get ready to impress your family or guests with minimal effort and maximum taste!

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