Save A creamy, spicy one-pot pasta dish featuring smoked sausage, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun Alfredo sauce—perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this Cajun Spiced Smoked Sausage Alfredo on a chilly evening when we wanted something comforting and flavorful with minimal dishes. The one-pot method made cleanup quick, and the whole family was instantly won over by the creamy sauce and smoky sausage.
Ingredients
- Smoked sausage: 14 oz (400 g), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Penne pasta (or other short pasta): 12 oz (340 g)
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Smoked paprika: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese: For serving
Instructions
- Brown the sausage:
- Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add garlic and seasoning:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add pasta and liquids:
- Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. Stir well, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Save This dish became a weekly staple for our family—everyone looks forward to the spicy, creamy flavors and fighting over the last spoonful. It's always a hit on busy nights when we want something special without fuss.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cajun Spiced Smoked Sausage Alfredo with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Recipe Variations
Try turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version, swap pasta types for gluten-free options, or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Nutrition Information
Each serving has approximately 680 calories, 38 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save 
Enjoy this Cajun Spiced Smoked Sausage Alfredo hot right out of the pot and sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan for a truly comforting finish.
Common Questions
- → What type of sausage is best for this dish?
Smoked sausage adds a robust, smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter version.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta for this meal?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute, just ensure the broth and sausage are also gluten-free for a completely gluten-free dish.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The Cajun seasoning provides a mild to moderate heat level. For extra spice, adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce is recommended.
- → What is the best way to achieve a creamy sauce consistency?
Stirring in freshly grated Parmesan cheese off the heat helps thicken and smooth the sauce, creating a luscious texture.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore sauce creaminess.