# Ingredient List:
→ 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
# Steps:
01 - Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente according to package directions. 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 and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter; add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper, sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add 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 simmer.
05 - Reduce heat to low, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
06 - Return sausage to skillet, add cooked penne, and toss to coat evenly with sauce. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste if desired.
07 - Serve immediately, topped with chopped fresh parsley.
