Name: Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 lb spicy italian sausage; kosher salt; 1 medium yellow onion; 1 Jalapeno; 1 tbsp garlic; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp McCormick® Jazzy Spice Blend; 1 lb dried pasta; 1 red bell pepper; 1 green bell pepper; 8 oz mushroom; 14½ oz tomato; 4 cups chicken stock; 5 oz cream cheese; 2 Scallions

Savor the rich and spicy flavors of creamy Cajun pasta, a delightful dish that brings together the heat of jalapeño and the smokiness of Italian sausage. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.

Photos of Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry. Look out for spicy Italian sausage and McCormick® Jazzy Spice Blend at the supermarket, as they add crucial flavors to the dish. Additionally, cream cheese is essential for the creamy texture, and might need to be picked up if you don't usually keep it on hand.

Ingredients For Creamy Cajun Pasta

Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base for sautéing and flavor.

Spicy Italian sausage: Provides a robust, spicy flavor to the dish.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and mildly pungent flavor.

Jalapeño: Brings heat and a fresh, green flavor.

Garlic: Adds aromatic and savory notes.

Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.

McCormick® Jazzy Spice Blend: A special spice mix that brings cajun flavors to the dish.

Dried pasta: The main carbohydrate component, making the dish filling.

Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color.

Green bell pepper: Adds a slightly bitter, grassy flavor and color.

Mushroom: Adds an earthy, umami taste.

Tomato: Provides acidity and a fresh tomato flavor.

Chicken stock: Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta.

Cream cheese: Creates a thick, creamy sauce.

Scallions: Adds a fresh, slightly sharp garnish.

One reader, Enrika Qualls says:

This creamy Cajun pasta recipe is a flavor explosion! The perfect blend of spices, tender sausage, and creamy sauce makes every bite delightful. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious. A new family favorite!

Enrika Qualls

Key Techniques for Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

How to brown sausage: Heat the butter in a pot, add the sausage, and cook until browned on both sides. How to soften onions: Add onions to the pot and cook until they start to soften. How to distribute tomato paste: Stir the tomato paste into the mixture until evenly combined. How to simmer pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until pasta is cooked. How to mix in cream cheese: Stir the cream cheese into the pasta until a thick, creamy sauce forms.

How To Make Creamy Cajun Pasta

Have a spoonful of this creamy cajun pasta with sausages for your next dinner meal! Toss this seasoned pasta meal together in just under an hour.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspunsalted butter
1lbspicy Italian sausage,cut into rounds
kosher salt,to taste
1medium yellow onion,thinly sliced
1jalapeño,seeded, minced
1tbspgarlic,minced
1tbsptomato paste
2tbspMcCormick® Jazzy Spice Blend
1lbdried pasta,penne
1red bell pepper,seeded, thinly sliced
1green bell pepper,seeded, thinly sliced
8ozmushroom,stemmed, sliced
14½oztomato,(1 can), fire-roasted
4cupschicken stock
5ozcream cheese,cubed
2scallions,thinly sliced, to garnish, optional

Instructions

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat until just bubbling. Add the sausage, then then season with salt.
Brown for 2 minutes on one side, then stir and brown the other side for 2 minutes more.
Add the onion, season with salt, and cook for 2 minutes, until starting to soften.
Add the jalapeño, garlic, and tomato paste, then stir to distribute the tomato paste. Add the Jazzy Spice Blend, then stir to combine.
Add the pasta, red and green bell peppers, mushrooms, and salt, then stir to combine. Pour in the tomatoes and stock.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, until the pasta is cooked through and the peppers are tender but not mushy.
Mix in the cream cheese to create a thick, creamy sauce.
Serve garnished with scallions, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 569.22kcal
Fat: 29.32g
Saturated Fat: 12.23g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.22g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.34g
Carbohydrates: 54.56g
Fiber: 3.76g
Sugar: 7.86g
Protein: 21.57g
Cholesterol: 73.81mg
Sodium: 897.92mg
Calcium: 61.26mg
Potassium: 749.30mg
Iron: 2.29mg
Vitamin A: 142.22µg
Vitamin C: 44.26mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

To ensure the cream cheese blends smoothly into the sauce, make sure it is at room temperature before adding it to the pot. This will help it melt more evenly and create a creamy, luscious texture without any lumps.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Creamy Cajun Pasta

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, jalapeño, bell peppers, and mushrooms ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked spicy Italian sausage to cut down on browning time.

Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to sauté and cook everything in one pot, reducing overall cooking time.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the jazzy spice blend, garlic, and tomato paste before you start cooking.

Quick-melt cream cheese: Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to mix into the sauce.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and can add a slightly different but pleasant flavor.
spicy italian sausage - Substitute with chorizo: Chorizo offers a similar spice level and robust flavor profile.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar flavor and texture, making them a suitable replacement.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though fresh garlic is more aromatic.
tomato paste - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can add a similar depth of flavor, though the texture will be slightly different.
mccormick® jazzy spice blend - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning offers a similar blend of spices and heat.
dried pasta - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat pasta provides a similar texture with added nutritional benefits.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and crunch.
green bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers offer a similar texture with a slightly different flavor.
mushroom - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini provides a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes offer a similar flavor and convenience.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock provides a similar base flavor and is suitable for vegetarians.
cream cheese - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream can provide a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

Presenting Your Creamy Cajun Pasta Dish

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy cajun pasta in elegant, shallow bowls to highlight the vibrant colors and textures. Use a ring mold to create a neat, compact mound of pasta in the center of the plate.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped scallions and a sprinkle of jazzy spice blend around the edge of the plate for a pop of color and a hint of the dish's flavor profile.
Highlight ingredients: Arrange slices of red bell pepper and green bell pepper artistically around the pasta. Place a few sautéed mushrooms on top to add visual interest and depth.
Add texture: Incorporate a crispy element by adding a few pieces of fried jalapeño on top of the pasta. This will provide a delightful crunch and a spicy kick.
Drizzle with sauce: Drizzle a bit of the creamy sauce made from cream cheese around the pasta to enhance the dish's luxurious texture and flavor.
Use fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh parsley or basil on top for a touch of green and a burst of freshness that complements the rich, creamy pasta.
Serve with a side: Pair the creamy cajun pasta with a small side of garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish and provide a complete dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Cajun Pasta

Large, heavy-bottomed pot: Used for melting butter, browning sausage, and cooking the pasta and vegetables. Its heavy bottom ensures even heat distribution.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients, especially when combining the tomato paste and jazzy spice blend.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the onion, jalapeño, garlic, bell peppers, and scallions.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping all the vegetables.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the butter, garlic, tomato paste, and jazzy spice blend.
Measuring cups: Used for measuring the chicken stock and cream cheese.
Can opener: Needed to open the can of tomatoes.
Colander: Useful for draining the pasta if you decide to cook it separately before adding it to the pot.
Tongs: Handy for turning the sausage to ensure it browns evenly on all sides.
Ladle: Perfect for serving the creamy Cajun pasta into bowls.
Grater: If you prefer freshly grated garlic, a grater can be used instead of minced garlic.
Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to combine ingredients before adding them to the pot.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Cajun Pasta

Allow the creamy cajun pasta to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the pasta, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled pasta into individual serving portions or freeze the entire batch, depending on your preference.
- Place the pasta in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the creamy cajun pasta for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
To reheat the frozen pasta, you have two options:
- Thaw overnight: Transfer the frozen pasta from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
- Reheat from frozen: Place the frozen pasta directly into a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. As the pasta thaws and heats up, it will release moisture. Stir well to combine and add a little extra chicken stock or water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
When reheating, make sure the pasta is heated through and steaming hot before serving.
Keep in mind that the texture of the bell peppers and mushrooms may soften slightly after freezing and reheating, but the overall flavor of the dish should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Cajun Pasta

Reheat the creamy cajun pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up and restore its creamy consistency.
For a quick and easy reheating method, transfer the leftover pasta to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
To reheat single servings, portion the creamy cajun pasta into individual oven-safe dishes, cover with foil, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
For a crispy twist, transfer the leftover pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
If you have leftover grilled chicken or shrimp, slice them up and add them to the creamy cajun pasta before reheating to give the dish an extra protein boost and a delicious smoky flavor.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Cajun Pasta

A fun fact about this creamy cajun pasta recipe is that it combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting texture of pasta. The addition of cream cheese creates a rich and velvety sauce that perfectly balances the spiciness of the jalapeño and spicy Italian sausage.

Is Making Creamy Cajun Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy cajun pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like spicy italian sausage, dried pasta, and chicken stock are affordable and readily available. Fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms add nutritional value without breaking the bank. The use of cream cheese provides a luxurious texture at a reasonable cost. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $20-$25 USD.

Is Creamy Cajun Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy Cajun pasta recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of high-fat ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and Italian sausage contributes to the dish's overall calorie and saturated fat content.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which may be a concern for those watching their sodium intake.
The pasta, although a source of carbohydrates, is likely made from refined flour, which lacks the beneficial fiber found in whole-grain alternatives.

However, the recipe does include some nutritious elements, such as the use of vegetables like onions, jalapeños, bell peppers, and mushrooms, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for whole-grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy.
Replace the Italian sausage with a leaner protein source, such as chicken or shrimp, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Reduce the amount of butter and cream cheese used, or substitute them with lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt or light cream cheese.
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the dish, such as adding spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, to boost the nutrient profile and fiber content.
Use low-sodium chicken stock and be mindful of the amount of added salt to control the dish's sodium levels.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor without relying heavily on salt or fat-rich ingredients.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe

This creamy Cajun pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures. The spicy Italian sausage and jazzy spice blend provide a robust kick, balanced by the creaminess of the melted cream cheese. The combination of bell peppers, mushrooms, and jalapeño adds a fresh, vibrant touch, while the chicken stock ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked and infused with flavor. The final garnish of scallions adds a subtle crunch and a hint of freshness. Overall, it's a well-rounded dish that's both hearty and satisfying.

Enhance Your Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. Pair your creamy cajun pasta with a side of Garlic Bread. The crispy, buttery slices, infused with garlic and parsley, will complement the rich, spicy flavors of the pasta perfectly.

Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar Salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. The romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing will add a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables: For a colorful and nutritious addition, serve Roasted Vegetables. Think carrots, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes roasted to perfection with a sprinkle of olive oil and herbs. These veggies will add a touch of earthiness and a pop of color to your plate.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your dining experience with Stuffed Mushrooms. These bite-sized delights, filled with a savory mixture of cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, will provide a rich and flavorful complement to your pasta.

Fruit Salad: End your meal on a sweet and refreshing note with a Fruit Salad. A medley of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and kiwi will cleanse your palate and provide a light, juicy finish to your hearty main course.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Cajun Pasta

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo: Dive into a creamy, spicy delight with this shrimp alfredo. The shrimp is seasoned with a Cajun spice blend, then cooked to perfection. Tossed with a rich, garlicky alfredo sauce and served over a bed of fettuccine, this dish is sure to impress.

Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya: Experience the flavors of Louisiana with this hearty jambalaya. Featuring chicken, sausage, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is cooked with a blend of Cajun spices and rice. It's a one-pot wonder that's perfect for any occasion.

Cajun Stuffed Bell Peppers: These bell peppers are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and Cajun spices. Baked until tender and topped with melted cheese, they make for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake: This pasta bake combines tender pieces of chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce and pasta. Topped with cheese and baked until golden and bubbly, it's a comforting dish that's perfect for a family dinner.

Cajun Shrimp and Grits: A Southern classic with a Cajun twist, this dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy sauce and served over creamy grits. It's a comforting and flavorful meal that's perfect for brunch or dinner.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Creamy Cajun Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked until golden and bubbly, offering a rich, creamy bite with every taste. These little morsels are perfect for setting the stage for your main course, providing a burst of flavor that complements the creamy cajun pasta beautifully.

Shrimp Cocktail: Shrimp Cocktail is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Fresh, succulent shrimp are poached to perfection and served chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce. The combination of the sweet, tender shrimp and the tangy, spicy sauce creates a refreshing start to your meal. This dish is not only elegant but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate cake that oozes with a gooey, decadent center. This dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis. The contrast between the warm, velvety chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for an elegant finish.

Tiramisu: Delight your guests with a classic Italian tiramisu, a layered masterpiece of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The subtle bitterness of the espresso balances the sweetness of the mascarpone, while the cocoa adds a rich, chocolatey note. Serve in individual glasses for a sophisticated presentation, and top with a few coffee beans or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance.

Why trust this Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe:

This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy Italian sausage and jazzy spice blend with the creamy richness of cream cheese. The use of fresh ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, and scallions ensures a vibrant and satisfying dish. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the quality of this recipe to deliver a delicious, comforting meal that will impress your family and friends.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sausage or even a different type like chicken or turkey sausage, go for it. Just keep in mind that it might change the overall flavor profile a bit.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Just omit the sausage and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You might want to add more veggies or even some tofu for extra protein.

How spicy is this dish?

The dish has a bit of a kick due to the spicy Italian sausage, jalapeño, and jazzy spice blend. If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or use a milder sausage.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely. Any type of pasta will work, though cooking times may vary. Just keep an eye on it and adjust as needed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen up the sauce.