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Pagosa Recipes

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Delight

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- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach - Salt and pepper to taste - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients makes this dish shine. The penne pasta holds the creamy sauce well. The andouille sausage adds a spicy kick. I like using olive oil for cooking; it gives a nice flavor. Onion and bell pepper create a sweet base. Adding garlic boosts the dish's aroma. Heavy cream makes the pasta rich and smooth. Chicken broth adds depth to the taste. The Cajun seasoning brings in that bold flavor we love. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Fresh spinach gives color and nutrition. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and a salty finish. For a beautiful touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This dish not only tastes great but looks lovely too! - First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 1 pound of sliced andouille sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. - Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate. - In the same pot, add 1 diced medium onion and 1 diced bell pepper. - Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. - Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for 1 more minute to bring out the flavor. - Now, stir in 12 ounces of penne pasta, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. - Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil. - Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. - Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 cup of fresh spinach. - Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pasta becomes creamy. - Finally, add the cooked sausage back into the pot. Mix well. Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. To get the best Cajun flavor, always adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. If you love spice, feel free to add more. You can also make your own Cajun seasoning. Mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. This way, you control the heat and flavor. Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly. It also prevents sticking. Make sure the pasta absorbs all the liquid. If you find too much broth left, cook it a bit longer without the lid. This helps create a creamy sauce. Serve the pasta in shallow bowls. For a nice touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add more Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair this dish with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch andouille sausage for other types of sausage. Try smoked sausage or Italian sausage. Both bring great flavors. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage. You can also add some mushrooms for texture. They soak up flavors well. Want to boost flavor? Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also toss in some sliced olives or jalapeños for a kick. For cheese lovers, try using cheddar or pepper jack instead of Parmesan. This gives a creamy, rich taste. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne pasta. Look for brands made with brown rice or quinoa. They work well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the liquids slightly. Start with less chicken broth, then add more if needed. This keeps your pasta perfectly creamy. To keep your One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta fresh, follow these easy steps: - Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing. - Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. - Divide it into small portions for easy access later. If you want to freeze some pasta, here’s how: - Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. - Press out excess air to avoid freezer burn. - Label each bag with the date and dish name. For reheating frozen pasta: - Thaw it overnight in the fridge. - Heat it gently in a pan, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. In the fridge, your pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days. Look for these signs of spoilage: - Unpleasant smells or odd colors. - Mold or slimy texture on the pasta. If you notice any of these, it’s best to toss it. Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free. Use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream. They will give you a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. To add more protein, consider using chicken or shrimp. You can also add beans like black beans or chickpeas. These options will make your dish heartier and enhance the flavor. If you do not have penne, other pasta shapes work well. Try rotini, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just ensure the cooking time is similar, so your pasta cooks evenly. Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook it as normal, then store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a little water or broth to keep it creamy. Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but it varies by brand. If you prefer less heat, use less seasoning at first. You can always add more to taste. Adjust according to your spice level preference. This dish combines penne pasta, andouille sausage, and vibrant veggies for a flavorful meal. I showed you how to cook everything step-by-step and shared tips to enhance your Cajun taste. You can adjust ingredients or try fun variations to match your needs. Store extras properly to enjoy later, and consider making it in advance for easy meals. With these insights, you can create a delightful dish that impresses anyone. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy cooking!

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Craving a delicious meal that’s quick and easy? Look no further! In this blog, I’ll share my recipe for One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta. This dish is full of flavor and takes only one pot to prepare. You’ll love how the creamy sauce blends with smoky andouille sausage, crunchy bell peppers, and fresh spinach. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

Ingredients

Detailed Ingredients List

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gathering the right ingredients makes this dish shine. The penne pasta holds the creamy sauce well. The andouille sausage adds a spicy kick. I like using olive oil for cooking; it gives a nice flavor.

Onion and bell pepper create a sweet base. Adding garlic boosts the dish’s aroma. Heavy cream makes the pasta rich and smooth. Chicken broth adds depth to the taste. The Cajun seasoning brings in that bold flavor we love.

Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Fresh spinach gives color and nutrition. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and a salty finish.

For a beautiful touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This dish not only tastes great but looks lovely too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Sausage

  • First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add 1 pound of sliced andouille sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate.

Sautéing Vegetables

  • In the same pot, add 1 diced medium onion and 1 diced bell pepper.
  • Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
  • Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for 1 more minute to bring out the flavor.

Cooking the Pasta

  • Now, stir in 12 ounces of penne pasta, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Finishing the Dish

  • Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 cup of fresh spinach.
  • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pasta becomes creamy.
  • Finally, add the cooked sausage back into the pot. Mix well. Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Cajun Flavor

To get the best Cajun flavor, always adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. If you love spice, feel free to add more. You can also make your own Cajun seasoning. Mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. This way, you control the heat and flavor.

Cooking Technique Tips

Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly. It also prevents sticking. Make sure the pasta absorbs all the liquid. If you find too much broth left, cook it a bit longer without the lid. This helps create a creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta in shallow bowls. For a nice touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add more Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair this dish with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch andouille sausage for other types of sausage. Try smoked sausage or Italian sausage. Both bring great flavors. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage. You can also add some mushrooms for texture. They soak up flavors well.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to boost flavor? Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also toss in some sliced olives or jalapeños for a kick. For cheese lovers, try using cheddar or pepper jack instead of Parmesan. This gives a creamy, rich taste.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne pasta. Look for brands made with brown rice or quinoa. They work well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the liquids slightly. Start with less chicken broth, then add more if needed. This keeps your pasta perfectly creamy.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta fresh, follow these easy steps:

  • Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.
  • Divide it into small portions for easy access later.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze some pasta, here’s how:

  • Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
  • Press out excess air to avoid freezer burn.
  • Label each bag with the date and dish name.

For reheating frozen pasta:

  • Thaw it overnight in the fridge.
  • Heat it gently in a pan, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days.

Look for these signs of spoilage:

  • Unpleasant smells or odd colors.
  • Mold or slimy texture on the pasta.

If you notice any of these, it’s best to toss it.

FAQs

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free. Use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream. They will give you a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I add more protein?

To add more protein, consider using chicken or shrimp. You can also add beans like black beans or chickpeas. These options will make your dish heartier and enhance the flavor.

What can I use instead of penne pasta?

If you do not have penne, other pasta shapes work well. Try rotini, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just ensure the cooking time is similar, so your pasta cooks evenly.

Is it possible to make this in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook it as normal, then store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a little water or broth to keep it creamy.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but it varies by brand. If you prefer less heat, use less seasoning at first. You can always add more to taste. Adjust according to your spice level preference.

This dish combines penne pasta, andouille sausage, and vibrant veggies for a flavorful meal. I showed you how to cook everything step-by-step and shared tips to enhance your Cajun taste. You can adjust ingredients or try fun variations to match your needs. Store extras properly to enjoy later, and consider making it in advance for easy meals. With these insights, you can create a delightful dish that impresses anyone. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy cooking!

- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach - Salt and pepper to taste - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients makes this dish shine. The penne pasta holds the creamy sauce well. The andouille sausage adds a spicy kick. I like using olive oil for cooking; it gives a nice flavor. Onion and bell pepper create a sweet base. Adding garlic boosts the dish's aroma. Heavy cream makes the pasta rich and smooth. Chicken broth adds depth to the taste. The Cajun seasoning brings in that bold flavor we love. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Fresh spinach gives color and nutrition. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and a salty finish. For a beautiful touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This dish not only tastes great but looks lovely too! - First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 1 pound of sliced andouille sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. - Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate. - In the same pot, add 1 diced medium onion and 1 diced bell pepper. - Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. - Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for 1 more minute to bring out the flavor. - Now, stir in 12 ounces of penne pasta, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. - Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil. - Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. - Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 cup of fresh spinach. - Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pasta becomes creamy. - Finally, add the cooked sausage back into the pot. Mix well. Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. To get the best Cajun flavor, always adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. If you love spice, feel free to add more. You can also make your own Cajun seasoning. Mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. This way, you control the heat and flavor. Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly. It also prevents sticking. Make sure the pasta absorbs all the liquid. If you find too much broth left, cook it a bit longer without the lid. This helps create a creamy sauce. Serve the pasta in shallow bowls. For a nice touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add more Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair this dish with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. {{image_2}} You can switch andouille sausage for other types of sausage. Try smoked sausage or Italian sausage. Both bring great flavors. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage. You can also add some mushrooms for texture. They soak up flavors well. Want to boost flavor? Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also toss in some sliced olives or jalapeños for a kick. For cheese lovers, try using cheddar or pepper jack instead of Parmesan. This gives a creamy, rich taste. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne pasta. Look for brands made with brown rice or quinoa. They work well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the liquids slightly. Start with less chicken broth, then add more if needed. This keeps your pasta perfectly creamy. To keep your One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta fresh, follow these easy steps: - Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing. - Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. - Divide it into small portions for easy access later. If you want to freeze some pasta, here’s how: - Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. - Press out excess air to avoid freezer burn. - Label each bag with the date and dish name. For reheating frozen pasta: - Thaw it overnight in the fridge. - Heat it gently in a pan, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. In the fridge, your pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days. Look for these signs of spoilage: - Unpleasant smells or odd colors. - Mold or slimy texture on the pasta. If you notice any of these, it’s best to toss it. Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free. Use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream. They will give you a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. To add more protein, consider using chicken or shrimp. You can also add beans like black beans or chickpeas. These options will make your dish heartier and enhance the flavor. If you do not have penne, other pasta shapes work well. Try rotini, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just ensure the cooking time is similar, so your pasta cooks evenly. Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook it as normal, then store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a little water or broth to keep it creamy. Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but it varies by brand. If you prefer less heat, use less seasoning at first. You can always add more to taste. Adjust according to your spice level preference. This dish combines penne pasta, andouille sausage, and vibrant veggies for a flavorful meal. I showed you how to cook everything step-by-step and shared tips to enhance your Cajun taste. You can adjust ingredients or try fun variations to match your needs. Store extras properly to enjoy later, and consider making it in advance for easy meals. With these insights, you can create a delightful dish that impresses anyone. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy cooking!

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Satisfy your cravings with this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta that's bursting with flavor! This easy recipe combines spicy andouille sausage, tender penne pasta, and a rich creamy sauce, all cooked in just one pot for a hassle-free dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to impress! Click through to discover the full recipe and delight your taste buds today!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb andouille sausage, sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup spinach, fresh

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.

    In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Stir in the penne pasta, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

        Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

          Stir in the heavy cream, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the pasta is creamy.

            Add the cooked sausage back to the pot and mix until well combined. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

              Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 serving

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top. A slice of crusty bread on the side is also a great addition!

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