Spicy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold, smoky flavors and a creamy, comforting texture, look no further than this Spicy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta. This recipe combines the rich, spicy essence of andouille sausage with tender penne pasta, sautéed vegetables, and a luscious tomato-cream sauce that’s seasoned perfectly with Cajun spices. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s hearty enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish brings a touch of Southern charm right to your table.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Spicy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The sausage provides a smoky depth and a spicy kick that wakes up your palate, balanced by the smooth creaminess of the sauce. The medley of sautéed onions and bell peppers adds sweetness and texture, making every bite layered and delicious. Unlike many pasta dishes, this one packs a punch with its Cajun seasoning, making it a standout for those who love a little heat without overwhelming the dish.

Beyond flavor, it’s an incredibly versatile recipe. You can easily swap the penne for rigatoni or fusilli, or tweak the spice levels to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce some Southern flair to your pasta nights without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

If you enjoy dishes like the Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo, this pasta recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to for quick, flavorful dinners.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 oz penne pasta – The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
• 1 lb chicken andouille sausage, sliced – Provides the spicy, smoky flavor base.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the veggies and sausage.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Brings a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Adds crunch and balances the red pepper’s sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential aromatic to elevate the flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Forms the tomato base of the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich, velvety finish.
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning – The star spice blend that delivers the Cajun punch.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season and balance all ingredients.
• Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and a fresh herbal note.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot – To boil the pasta until al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the sausage, vegetables, and sauce.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping the vegetables and sausage slices.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the ingredients as they cook.
• Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.
• Measuring spoons and cups – For precise seasoning and cream measurements.

Cooking Spicy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken andouille sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and stir to combine. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the tomato mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Sausage

Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help the sauce cling to the pasta.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

If you’re looking for other pasta dishes that pack flavor, you might want to check out the Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe for a lighter, garlicky alternative.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Add fresh sliced cherry tomatoes when in season for an extra juicy burst.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Incorporate freshly chopped green onions or scallions for added sharpness.
• Top with grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for additional depth.
• Use roasted bell peppers instead of raw for a sweeter, smoky flavor.

Problems & Prevention

• Soggy Pasta: Avoid overcooking the penne; always cook it al dente. Drain immediately and toss with a little olive oil if not combining right away.
• Too Spicy: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste. Start with 1 tsp if you prefer milder heat, then add more as needed.
• Watery Sauce: Let the sauce simmer long enough to thicken. If it’s still thin after adding cream, cook a few more minutes or add a bit of cornstarch slurry.
• Burnt Garlic: Add garlic after the vegetables have softened and keep stirring to prevent burning, which can cause bitterness.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This pasta tastes best fresh, but leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While chicken andouille sausage brings a signature smoky heat, you can substitute with turkey sausage or any spicy sausage you prefer. Just make sure it’s fully cooked or cooked thoroughly during the sauté step.

Is there a vegetarian version of this pasta?

Yes! Replace the sausage with smoked tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based sausage alternative. Boost the smoky flavor with smoked paprika and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of penne. Just follow the cooking instructions on the packaging to ensure the perfect texture.

What sides pair well with Spicy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta?

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or garlic bread works wonderfully to balance the richness. If you want to expand the meal, try pairing it with dishes like Meatballs With Tomato Sauce And Rice for a comforting feast.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo – Dive deeper into Cajun flavors with a hearty stew.
• Meatballs With Tomato Sauce And Rice – A classic, comforting dish to enjoy any day of the week.
• Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe – Light, garlicky, and perfect for seafood lovers.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients and prep your chopping board because this Spicy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta will have your kitchen smelling incredible in no time. From the sizzle of the sausage hitting the pan to the rich cream sauce coating every bite of penne, this dish brings bold flavors and comforting vibes to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that delivers satisfying, crave-worthy results every time.

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and spice of this pasta to turn an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. So, grab your skillet, stir up those vibrant veggies, and dive into a bowl of creamy, spicy goodness that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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