This Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta mixes creamy sauce with spicy sausage for a tasty dinner that’s ready in no time! Yum! It’s a little bit of heat and a whole lot of flavor.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, sauté the sausage, and mix it all together. It’s perfect for when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide pasta is perfect for creamy sauces. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pasta or swap it for penne or rigatoni for a different shape.
Cajun Sausage: Smoked sausage gives that bold flavor. You can substitute with andouille sausage or chicken sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option. Even regular smoked sausage works if you can’t find Cajun!
Mushrooms: While I like using button or cremini mushrooms, feel free to use whatever you have on hand, such as portobello or shiitake for an earthier taste.
Heavy Cream: This gives you that rich creaminess. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce may be less thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative with a sharper flavor.
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Creating a creamy Alfredo sauce is simple, but you have to be careful not to overheat it. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Start with medium heat when you add your cream to the pan—it helps prevent it from boiling too quickly.
- Whisk constantly when adding the Parmesan cheese to avoid lumps. If lumps form, just keep whisking, and they should dissolve!
- Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning! Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go to get it just right.
If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water makes it silky and helps it cling to the pasta better. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Sausage and Veggies:
- 1 lb smoked Cajun sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust more or less to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta comes together in about 30 minutes! Prepare for 10 minutes of prep work and 20 minutes of cooking, making it a quick and fulfilling weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but remember to save about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water for later use.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced Cajun sausage. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until the sausage is browned all over. Once done, remove it from the skillet and place it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they become tender and browned. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, then pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine it with the mushrooms and garlic. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. It should thicken a little as you stir.
5. Season and Combine:
Add the Cajun seasoning, along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preference. Once combined, return the browned sausage to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce.
6. Toss with Pasta:
Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, gently tossing everything together so the pasta is coated with that delicious creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is mixed, serve the Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta warm. Garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Enjoy your spicy, creamy Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Cajun sausage adds a nice kick, you can substitute it with andouille sausage for a similar flavor or even use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, try adding more Cajun seasoning or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sautéing step to elevate the spice level!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to store them separately. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove and add the pasta right before serving to maintain the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help revive its creaminess and avoid drying out. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
