Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo
Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo is a creamy and hearty pasta dish featuring tender smoked sausage slices simmered in a luscious Alfredo sauce with bold Cajun spices. This recipe combines smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors to create a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces and finely mince the garlic. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set everything within reach before starting to cook.
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water for later.
- Sauté the sausage and garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the sliced sausage. Cook until slightly browned, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make the Cajun Alfredo sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in Cajun seasoning and allow it to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the cream thicken slightly.
- Add cheese and pasta: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to ensure every strand and piece is coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness before serving immediately.
Notes
- Use good quality smoked sausage for the best flavor.
- Always use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced for better aroma and taste.
- Do not overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to maintain firmness.
- Add Cajun seasoning gradually and adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 25 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Smoked Sausage, Cajun Alfredo, Creamy Pasta, Spicy Sausage Pasta, Cajun Pasta, Weeknight Dinner