When it comes to comfort food that packs a punch of smoky, spicy flavor, andouille sausage is a go-to ingredient. Its robust taste pairs beautifully with pasta, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, andouille sausage recipes with pasta offer a delightful blend of Cajun-inspired zest and Italian tradition. This versatile sausage adds depth and character to simple pasta dishes, transforming them into something extraordinary.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a delicious andouille sausage pasta recipe, perfect for those who love bold flavors and easy-to-make meals. From the right ingredients to handy cooking tips, you’ll find everything needed to whip up this crowd-pleaser.
Plus, if you’re looking for more tasty ideas, we’ll share a few variations and serving suggestions to keep your dinners exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This andouille sausage pasta recipe is a fantastic combination of spicy, smoky sausage with tender pasta, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs. It’s:
- Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Full of flavor: The andouille sausage brings a distinctive Cajun flair that elevates the dish.
- Flexible: Easily adaptable with different types of pasta or veggies.
- Comforting and filling: A one-pan meal that satisfies your cravings without complicated prep.
It’s an ideal recipe for anyone wanting a flavorful pasta meal with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander or strainer
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits. Then stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and sausage: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach desired consistency.
- Finish with cheese and herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately: Plate the pasta hot, optionally with extra Parmesan on the side.
Tips & Variations
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Add vegetables: Spinach, kale, or mushrooms can be added with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use different pasta: Rigatoni or penne hold sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite shape.
- Make it spicy: Increase cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Try a tomato twist: Add 1 cup of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a tangier, red sauce version.
- Swap the sausage: If andouille isn’t available, smoked kielbasa or chorizo can be great substitutes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 520 kcal |
Protein | 27 g |
Fat | 28 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 900 mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
This andouille sausage pasta is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your plate:
- Serve with a crisp green salad, such as a Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to balance the richness.
- Pair with garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping into the luscious sauce.
- Accompany with roasted or steamed vegetables to add color and nutrients.
- For a Cajun feast, serve alongside classic sides like cornmeal hush puppies or Cajun-style coleslaw.
More Andouille Sausage Recipes with Pasta
Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce
A spicy alternative that kicks up the heat with Cajun seasoning and a creamy sauce made from scratch. Tossed with penne pasta, bell peppers, and onions, this dish is a flavor explosion.
Andouille Sausage and Shrimp Pasta
Combine the smoky sausage with succulent shrimp for a surf-and-turf pasta. A garlic butter sauce and fresh herbs bring the dish together perfectly.
Serve with linguine or fettuccine.
Spicy Andouille Sausage Pasta Bake
A comforting baked pasta casserole featuring andouille sausage, mozzarella cheese, and a spicy tomato sauce. Perfect for meal prep and making ahead to feed a hungry crowd.
One-Pot Andouille Sausage Pasta
For easy cleanup, try this one-pot recipe where pasta, sausage, vegetables, and sauce cook together. It’s speedy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Andouille Sausage and Roasted Vegetable Pasta
Mix roasted zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes with sliced andouille sausage and pasta for a Mediterranean-inspired dish bursting with flavor and texture.
For more delicious and easy meal ideas, check out these recipes:
- Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide
- Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious
- Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food
Conclusion
Andouille sausage recipes with pasta bring a wonderful combination of bold, smoky flavors and comforting textures to your dining table. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this sausage-based pasta dish delivers on both taste and simplicity.
The creamy sauce enriched with smoked paprika and garlic perfectly complements the spicy sausage, creating a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and full of character.
With versatile variations and easy ingredient swaps, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to explore other hearty dishes like those found in our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or get creative with plant-based alternatives from our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals.
This andouille sausage pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation, perfect for sharing and savoring all year round.
📖 Recipe Card: Andouille Sausage Pasta
Description: A spicy and flavorful pasta dish featuring smoky andouille sausage, bell peppers, and a creamy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a Cajun twist.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream; cook for 2 more minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition: Calories: 520 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 30 g | Carbs: 40 g
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