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Creamy Cajun Sausage Alfredo Bowtie Skillet

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Alfredo Bowtie Skillet is a rich, comforting pasta dinner packed with smoky sausage, tender bowtie pasta, and a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce seasoned with bold Cajun spices. It's an easy one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces bowtie pasta
  • 14 ounces smoked Cajun or andouille sausage sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until nicely browned. Remove to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, then whisk until smooth.
  5. Add the Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  6. Mix in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and adjust the salt if needed.
  7. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.
  8. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  9. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
  10. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce.
  • Add spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Substitute chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage for a different variation.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides the smoothest and creamiest Alfredo sauce.