# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Sausage
02 - 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce
06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
07 - 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
08 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
11 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
→ Garnish
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter. Add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Stir in heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
06 - Return browned sausage to the skillet. Add cooked penne and toss to evenly coat all components with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
07 - Plate the dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
