Description
Cheesy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and pasta, all enveloped in a spicy Cajun cheese sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225g) penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz (225g) andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken and Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Season:
- Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.
- Gradually add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm.
Notes
- For added heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute the sausage with another variety or use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, cheesy pasta, sausage pasta