Craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Cajun sausage pasta recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a perfect blend of spicy Cajun sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite, offering a healthy meal option without sacrificing taste. Let's dive into this simple yet incredibly delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Cajun sausage, sliced (Andouille is traditional, but any spicy sausage works!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta and the browned Cajun sausage to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level. For a milder dish, use less or omit it entirely. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Protein: Shrimp or chicken would be delicious additions to this recipe. Add them to the skillet with the sausage.
- Creamy Cajun Pasta: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty, sharp note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Cajun sausage pasta recipe is a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy!