Cajun Sausage and Garlic Butter Pasta – A Spicy, Creamy Delight

If you’re looking for an easy yet incredibly flavorful pasta dish, this Cajun Sausage and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect meal for you! With tender pasta, smoky Cajun sausage, a rich garlic butter sauce, and just the right amount of spice, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite.

This recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and packed with bold flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The creamy garlic butter sauce, combined with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, gives this dish a deliciously spicy kick, while the sausage adds a smoky depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Sausage and Garlic Butter Pasta

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich and Creamy – The buttery garlic sauce coats every bite of pasta beautifully.
• Spicy and Flavorful – Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika give this dish a bold, smoky kick.
• Customizable – Add shrimp, chicken, or veggies to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti) – A perfect base that absorbs the creamy sauce.
• 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced – Adds a smoky, spicy depth of flavor.
• 2 tbsp butter – For a rich, silky texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a strong, fragrant flavor.
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning – Adds heat and a Southern kick.
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky depth of the dish.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Helps deglaze the pan and build flavor.

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce smooth and rich.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, cheesy touch.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For extra heat.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Make Cajun Sausage and Garlic Butter Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Cook the Cajun Sausage

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.
3. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp of butter and melt it.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
5. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the sausage to the pan and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
3. Enjoy with garlic bread, a side salad, or a glass of white wine!

Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Use a good-quality Cajun sausage – Andouille sausage works best for authentic smoky flavor.
• Adjust the spice level – Add more or less Cajun seasoning depending on your heat preference.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
• Reserve some pasta water – It helps create a silky, smooth sauce.

Delicious Variations

• Add Protein – Toss in shrimp, grilled chicken, or even crispy bacon for extra flavor.
• Make It Extra Cheesy – Stir in extra Parmesan or shredded mozzarella for a cheesier sauce.
• Add Veggies – Try bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for a nutritious boost.
• Make It Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a healthier version.

What to Serve with Cajun Sausage and Garlic Butter Pasta

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
• Grilled Vegetables – Roasted asparagus or zucchini make a great side.
• White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat – Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy.
• Freeze – This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, but you can freeze the sausage separately and make the sauce fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! Try chorizo, smoked sausage, or even turkey sausage for a different twist.

Is this recipe really spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level, but you can adjust it by adding less Cajun seasoning or skipping the red pepper flakes.

Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Sausage and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort food – spicy, creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a new pasta dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!