This Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and zesty dish that’s sure to warm your heart. With savory sausage and rich Alfredo sauce, every bite is full of flavor!
It’s so comforting; I think my taste buds throw a little party every time I make it!🎉 I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This flat pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can swap it for linguine or penne, both work well!
Smoked Sausage: I love using andouille sausage for that bold flavor, but you can easily replace it with kielbasa or turkey sausage if you want a lighter option.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a nice kick to the dish. If you don’t have any, making your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano works great too!
Heavy Cream and Milk: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a low-fat milk alternative, but it may change the creaminess!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is always best for melting, but you could use shredded mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Creating a smooth Alfredo sauce may seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, it’s easy! Start by sautéing the garlic and onion to release their flavors. This is where the magic begins!
- After adding the cream and milk, begin to heat it gently; do not let it boil vigorously to avoid curdling.
- When adding the cheese, do it gradually, stirring well after each addition to keep it smooth.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to ensure it’s just right.
With a gentle hand and patience, your Alfredo sauce will be perfectly creamy! Happy cooking!
Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 15 minutes cooking everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This should usually take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until it’s browned on both sides, around 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them until they are softened and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This will build the base of your flavor!
4. Add the Cajun Flair:
Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning, ensuring it coats the garlic and onion evenly. This will bring that lovely southern flavor to the dish!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Make it Creamy:
Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
7. Combine Everything:
Add the browned smoked sausage back into the skillet and stir to coat it with the sauce. Then, carefully add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated in that creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is combined, transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if you desire. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta Instead of Fettuccine?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works great for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand, like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken. Keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit less rich.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the smoked sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables. You can also add some cooked chickpeas for added protein!
