Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Cajun sausage; 12 oz penne pasta; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cajun seasoning to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne is a delightful pasta dish that blends rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. The creamy sauce combined with the spicy Cajun sausage creates a satisfying meal that will please both adults and kids. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

how to make Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne

Ingredients :

1 lb Cajun sausage
12 oz penne pasta
1/4 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cajun seasoning to taste

Directions :

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning to the skillet; simmer while stirring occasionally.
Mix in the cooked penne and Parmesan cheese until well coated with sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne

To serve Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne, transfer it to a large serving bowl or plate. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out your meal.

how to store Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store the Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne

For a spicy kick, add more Cajun seasoning or some diced jalapeños.
You can use other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or rigatoni, if you prefer.
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

variation (if any)

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different proteins, such as chicken or shrimp. If you want a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms. Adjust the seasonings to match your preferences for a unique twist on this satisfying meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, feel free to use any type of sausage you enjoy, such as Italian sausage or smoked sausage.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sausage separately, then combine them with the sauce just before serving.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Butter Cajun Sausage Penne?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the dish. Just be aware that the texture may change once thawed and reheated.