A smoky, creamy, and spicy twist on a pasta night classic. This Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo blends the robust flavors of seared sausage with velvety Alfredo sauce and a bold Cajun seasoning kick. The result is a weeknight dinner that tastes like a Southern comfort indulgence without the extra fuss.

Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy fettuccine coated in just the right amount of heat and topped with crispy-edged sausage slices. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish adds a vibrant and comforting flair to your table.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Fettuccine is ideal for this recipe because its wide, flat surface clings to the Alfredo sauce beautifully, delivering a rich, satisfying bite every time. If you don’t have fettuccine on hand, linguine or tagliatelle also work well.

Ingredients for the Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo

Smoked Sausage: Adds a deep, smoky flavor and a satisfying bite. Look for andouille or kielbasa for a spicier, authentic Cajun edge.
Fettuccine Pasta: Its broad shape holds the creamy sauce well.
Heavy Cream: The base for a rich and silky Alfredo sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty sharpness and thickens the sauce.
Butter: Starts the sauce with richness and blends everything smoothly.
Garlic: Enhances the depth of flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: The signature spice blend that adds heat and a bold flavor profile.
Parsley: Freshness to balance the richness and for garnish.
Salt and Pepper: To season and balance flavors.

How To Make the Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Slice the smoked sausage into coins. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the sausage pieces until browned and slightly crisp on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the drained fettuccine and toss everything together. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for a creamier texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, sprinkled with chopped parsley and a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning for color and spice.

Serving and Storing Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo

This dish is best served immediately while the Alfredo sauce is creamy and warm. Pair it with a light green salad or garlic bread for a full meal. If you’re making it ahead or have leftovers, let the pasta cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until smooth. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the sauce break.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes! While fettuccine is traditional, linguine, penne, or rigatoni also work well for catching the sauce.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It varies by brand, but most blends have a mild to moderate heat. Start with less and add to taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the sausage and make the sauce a day ahead. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What proteins can I substitute for sausage?

Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be used instead. Just make sure they’re well-seasoned and cooked before adding to the sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Alfredo sauces don’t always freeze well as the cream can separate. It’s better enjoyed fresh or stored short-term in the fridge.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni, where creamy meets savory in a slightly chunkier format. Or dive into the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli for a veggie-boosted alternative that keeps the Cajun flair.

For beef lovers, the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce offers a hearty twist. And if you’re after an all-in-one bake, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti delivers creamy comfort in casserole form.

Lastly, explore the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a bold, beefy, one-pan wonder that brings flair to your weeknight rotation.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use andouille or kielbasa? Did you add extra Cajun heat? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others spice it up.

Smoked Sausage Cajun Alfredo

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A smoky and creamy Cajun-style pasta dish packed with bold flavor from seared sausage, Cajun spices, and a luscious Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or to impress guests with Southern flair.

Instructions

Slice the smoked sausage into coins and sear in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
Cook fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
Return sausage and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner