This Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, spicy treat! With tasty sausage and rich sauce, it’s a delightful twist on a classic dish that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Making this pasta is always a hit in my house! It’s easy to whip up, and I love pairing it with garlic bread. Just be ready for the deliciousness to disappear fast! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide pasta holds the sauce beautifully. If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version!
Cajun Smoked Sausage: I love the bold flavor of Cajun sausage. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage works well too. Alternatively, any other smoked sausage can add great taste.
Heavy Cream: It makes the Alfredo sauce rich and creamy. If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half or use a dairy-free cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. In a pinch, use pre-grated cheese or swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
How Do I Get the Sauce to Be Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that velvety sauce is key! Start by ensuring your cream is warmed through before adding parmesan. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium-low heat to prevent the cream from boiling, which can cause separation.
- Add cheese gradually while stirring constantly. This helps it melt evenly into the mixture.
- If the sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of pasta water or more milk to reach your desired consistency.
With these tips, your Alfredo sauce will turn out creamy every time. Enjoy cooking!
Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb Cajun smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and then about 15 minutes cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Cajun smoked sausage and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s browned on both sides. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and place it on a plate. Set aside for later.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and golden. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the tomatoes have softened a bit.
4. Add Seasonings and Cream:
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the veggies. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously until heated through but not boiling.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring well after each addition. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the browned smoked sausage to the skillet and mix it in with the Alfredo sauce. Then, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7. Final Touches and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot. You can also add extra Parmesan on top or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like it spicy!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta! It’s bound to become a favorite!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or using a spicier Cajun sausage. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños or sautéed bell peppers for extra flavor and spice!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of extra cream or water to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture.