Creamy Cajun Alfredo blending smoky sausage, penne, and rich sauce for a hearty, quick meal.
# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Sausage
02 - 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce
06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
07 - 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
08 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 100 g)
09 - 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
10 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
11 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
→ Garnish
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
# Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and red bell pepper, sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Stir in heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring mixture to a simmer.
05 - Reduce heat to low, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and sauce is smooth.
06 - Return browned sausage to the skillet. Add cooked penne and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice if desired.
07 - Plate immediately and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
