5-Ingredient Cajun Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 ounces bow tie pasta
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 (14 ounce) package smoked sausage, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 1 (10 ounce) seasoning blend (such as Kroger Frozen Cajun Style Mirepoix Blend)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, or more to taste
• 1 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bow tie pasta and cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be tender yet firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and set aside.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sausage slices and cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat is rendered and the sausage becomes browned, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoning blend (a mix of chopped onion, pepper, and celery) and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated and the cheese is fully melted. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve the dish immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful pasta with a smoky kick from the sausage and Cajun seasoning!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 849
• Total Fat: 67g (86% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 32g (161% DV)
• Cholesterol: 172mg (57% DV)
• Sodium: 1344mg (58% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 39g (14% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (9% DV)
• Total Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 24g (48% DV)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% DV)
• Calcium: 199mg (15% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (11% DV)
• Potassium: 746mg (16% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Cooks Note: The seasoning blend is a frozen mix of chopped onion, pepper, and celery, often found in the freezer section of most grocery stores.

The Rich History of Cajun Pasta

Cajun pasta, a delightful fusion of creamy Italian pasta with the bold, smoky flavors of Louisiana, has its roots in the Cajun communities of the American South. Cajun cuisine itself emerged from the Acadian settlers who were expelled from Canada in the 18th century and settled primarily in Louisiana. Over generations, these settlers adapted local ingredientssuch as smoked sausages, peppers, and creamto create hearty, comforting dishes that were both flavorful and easy to prepare. The addition of pasta is a relatively modern twist, blending Italian influence with traditional Cajun spices for a dish that is both quick and indulgent.

Regional Characteristics

In Louisiana, Cajun pasta is particularly popular in the southwestern parishes, where the use of smoked sausage, bell peppers, onions, and celery is a hallmark of local cooking. Unlike traditional pasta dishes that rely heavily on tomato or cream sauces alone, Cajun pasta incorporates a signature seasoning blend that includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder, giving it a unique spicy and smoky depth. Regional variations may also include seafood, such as shrimp or crawfish, reflecting the coastal bounty of the Gulf of Mexico.

What Sets It Apart

Compared to other creamy pasta dishes, such as Alfredo or carbonara, Cajun pasta stands out because of its robust seasoning and the use of smoked sausage. The interplay of heat from Cajun spices with the richness of heavy cream creates a bold flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. The dish is also distinguished by its simplicityusing just a few key ingredients while achieving complex taste layers, making it approachable for home cooks without sacrificing authenticity.

Where It Is Typically Served

Cajun pasta is versatile in its presentation. It is commonly served in casual dining establishments, bistros, and Cajun-themed restaurants throughout Louisiana and the Southern United States. It is equally at home as a hearty weeknight dinner at home or as part of a buffet spread at social gatherings. Many chefs serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a visually appealing and aromatic finish.

Interesting Facts

• The Cajun seasoning blend often used in this pasta was originally designed to mimic the bold flavors of traditional gumbo and jambalaya in a more convenient form.
• Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is preferred for this dish because its shape holds creamy sauce well and allows small vegetable pieces to cling, enhancing every bite.
• Although called "5-Ingredient Cajun Pasta," the recipe cleverly leverages pre-made seasoning blends and staple pantry items to create a flavor-packed meal with minimal effort.
• This dish is a popular choice for meal prep because it reheats well and retains its creamy texture without separating, unlike some cream-based pasta dishes.
• Chefs sometimes experiment with vegan or gluten-free versions, substituting plant-based cream and sausages, demonstrating its adaptability across modern dietary preferences.

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