# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 ounces penne pasta
→ Sausage
02 - 12 ounces smoked sausage, 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 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
08 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
→ Garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# Directions:
01 - Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook sliced smoked sausage for 3 to 4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter, then cook onion and red bell pepper for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika; bring to a simmer.
05 - Lower heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
06 - Return sausage and cooked pasta to skillet; toss to coat evenly in sauce. Season to taste with additional Cajun seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
