Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne
Looking for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and packed with a little kick? Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne is your answer. This dish combines tender penne pasta with spicy Cajun-seasoned turkey sausage, enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and spicy, hearty yet fresh, and easy enough to whip up on any busy evening. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Top Reasons to Make Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Spicy: Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy depth without overpowering the dish.
- Protein-Packed: Turkey sausage provides a lean protein source that keeps you full and satisfied.
- Creamy Comfort: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different veggies or pasta types to suit your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: The spice level can be adjusted to make it kid-friendly or more robust for adults.
What’s in the Bowl
- 8 oz penne pasta: Al dente pasta is the perfect vessel for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 1 lb Cajun turkey sausage, sliced: Adds a deliciously spicy, smoky protein element.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich and silky texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the cream and adds depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring brightness and a slight acidity to cut through the richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a savory base flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic, flavorful punch.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that gives this dish its signature kick.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Fresh herbs brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Appliances & Accessories
- Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta to perfect tenderness.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the sausage, onions, and creating the sauce.
- Colander: To drain the pasta quickly and efficiently.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sausage and sauce without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right balance of ingredients.
Step-by-Step: Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb of sliced Cajun turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Sauce
Return the cooked turkey sausage to the pan. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Garnish
Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Year-Round Variations
- Spring: Add fresh spinach or asparagus for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Summer: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular for a smoky twist.
- Fall: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and kale to add earthiness and texture.
- Winter: Swap penne for rigatoni and add roasted red peppers for warmth and sweetness.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace turkey sausage with smoked tofu or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Little Things that Matter
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should have a slight bite to hold up well in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor impact.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference — add a pinch more if you love heat!
- Let the sauce simmer gently rather than a rolling boil to keep it creamy and smooth.
- Adding a splash of pasta water helps marry the sauce and pasta for a silky finish.
Best Ways to Store
This Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne is fantastic for leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and stir well to restore creaminess. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works perfectly due to its shape and size, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even penne rigate. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Yes! Simply reduce the Cajun seasoning by half or use a mild seasoning blend. You can also omit the Cajun spice altogether and add smoky paprika for flavor without the heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this pasta?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables work beautifully to balance the richness of the pasta. For more Cajun flair, pair with Dirty Rice Popeyes Cajun Rice for a complete, flavorful meal.
Try These Next
- For a creamy pasta with a tomato twist, try Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Penne.
- If you’re craving another tasty pasta without bacon, give Creamy Bacon Free Carbonara Turkey a whirl.
- Want more spice in your rice dishes? Check out the flavorful Dirty Rice Popeyes Cajun Rice.
Serve & Enjoy
Serve this Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne hot from the stove, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a perfectly balanced meal. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for something creamy, spicy, and downright comforting — all in one bowl. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Give this recipe a try tonight, and you might just find yourself making it again and again. It’s the kind of home-cooked meal that feels special but comes together effortlessly — the best kind of dinner win.
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Creamy Cajun Turkey Sausage Penne
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb of sliced Cajun turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the cooked turkey sausage to the pan. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should have a slight bite to hold up well in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor impact.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference — add a pinch more if you love heat!
