Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo

by

Description:

Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish with a spicy twist. The smoky flavor of sausage combines beautifully with Cajun seasoning, garlic, and a luscious Alfredo sauce. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want a satisfying, comforting plate.

Ingredients (Quantities):

  • Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine): 12 oz
  • Smoked sausage (sliced into rounds): 12 oz
  • Heavy cream: 1 ½ cups
  • Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): 1 ½ cups
  • Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
  • Cajun seasoning: 2 tablespoons
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Fresh parsley (chopped): 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients:

  • Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (for extra heat)
  • Bell peppers (sliced): 1 large (adds color and crunch)
  • Onions (diced): 1 small (for added sweetness)
  • Chicken broth: ¼ cup (to loosen the sauce)
  • Green onions (chopped): for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
  3. Sauté garlic and optional veggies: In the same skillet, add butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). If using bell peppers or onions, sauté them for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  4. Make the Cajun Alfredo sauce: Stir in the Cajun seasoning and heavy cream, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little chicken broth to loosen it.
  5. Combine pasta and sausage: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and toss the pasta into the sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
  6. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and, if desired, green onions or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Tips for Success:

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly into the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures the pasta holds its texture when tossed with the sauce.
  • Adjust spice level: Start with less Cajun seasoning if you’re sensitive to heat, then add more as needed.

Recommendations:

  • Pair this dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.
  • Serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious Alfredo sauce.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated):

  • Calories: 640
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 45g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 1350mg
  • Sugars: 3g

Enjoy your flavorful Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo!

Leave a Comment