Andouille Fajita Pasta

If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and creamy comfort, then you absolutely must try this Andouille Fajita Pasta. Combining the spicy, smoky kick of andouille sausage with vibrant bell peppers and rich, cheesy pasta, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a fiesta on your plate. Every bite brings a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness that feels like a warm hug on a busy night. Whether you’re new to cooking with andouille or a seasoned fan, this dish will quickly become one of your go-to weeknight favorites thanks to its ease, depth of flavor, and satisfying texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Andouille Fajita Pasta may look impressive, but the ingredients list is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role: from the smoky andouille sausage that adds character, to the colorful bell peppers that bring sweetness and crunch, and the creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together with indulgence.

• 8 ounces penne pasta: Choose a sturdy pasta like penne to hold up well with the thick sauce and chunky sausage.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Helps with sautéing the sausage and vegetables evenly without burning.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a velvety richness that balances the spice.
• 1 ring (13 ounces) Andouille sausage, sliced into ¼-inch pieces: The star ingredient, providing smoky, spicy depth.
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced into half moons: Gives a mild, sweet onion flavor and lovely texture.
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter crunch to contrast the rich sauce.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that intensifies the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adds warmth and mild heat to enhance the fajita flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy spice that deepens the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Elevates all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides subtle garlicky depth throughout.
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that coats every pasta nook.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly and helps with consistency.
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to give a smooth, cheesy finish.
• Lime wedges, for garnish: Adds a refreshing citrus brightness at the end.
• Cilantro, chopped for garnish: Offers a fresh herbal pop to tie it all together.

How to Make Andouille Fajita Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. The firm bite of al dente pasta will hold up beautifully under the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta but remember to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water — this will be your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Brown the Andouille Sausage

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and let it brown on each side for 3 to 5 minutes. This step releases the sausage’s flavorful fat and transforms it into a beautifully caramelized, smoky addition to the dish. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you cook the veggies.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Peppers

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of oil along with the unsalted butter. Once melted, toss in the thinly sliced red onion and both bell peppers. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes until the onions soften and the peppers become tender but still retain a slight crunch. This combination creates a colorful, flavorful base that perfectly complements the sausage’s spice.

Step 4: Build the Sauce with Seasonings

Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and kosher salt right into the pan with the softened onions and peppers. These spices are the heart of the fajita flavor profile, layering warmth, earthiness, and mild heat into every bite. Mixing the tomato paste in at this stage intensifies the sauce’s richness and helps meld all the flavors together.

Step 5: Add Cream, Broth, and Cheese

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Slowly stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until it melts entirely into a smooth, creamy sauce. This luscious sauce is what makes Andouille Fajita Pasta so irresistibly comforting — smooth, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Step 6: Combine Sausage and Pasta

Return the browned andouille sausage to the pot along with the cooked pasta. Gently toss everything together to ensure every penne is luxuriously coated with the creamy sauce. If the mix feels too thick or sticky, stir in some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect silky consistency. Remove the pot from heat once everything is warmed through and ready to serve.

How to Serve Andouille Fajita Pasta

Garnishes

Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top right before serving provides a bright, zesty lift that cuts through the richness and balances the smoky, spicy flavors beautifully. Sprinkle chopped cilantro generously to add a fresh herbal note and a splash of vibrant green that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This dish shines well on its own but pairing Andouille Fajita Pasta with simple side dishes can round out your meal perfectly. Consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to add texture and freshness, or serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to mop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, plate your Andouille Fajita Pasta in wide, shallow bowls to highlight the colorful peppers and sausage slices. A drizzle of extra lime juice around the rim or a few whole cilantro leaves scattered on top can turn a casual meal into an elevated dinner party dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped jalapeños for extra layers of flavor and heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Andouille Fajita Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, although the sauce may thicken slightly. Adding a splash of cream or broth when reheating helps bring it back to that luscious, creamy texture.

Freezing

This pasta also freezes well if you want to make it ahead in larger batches. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop with a little extra liquid to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or separation. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream will freshen up the sauce and ensure it’s as indulgent and smooth as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage instead of Andouille?

While Andouille gives this pasta its signature smoky and spicy flavor, you can substitute with smoked sausage, kielbasa, or chorizo if desired. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level is moderate due to the chili powder and spicy andouille sausage, but it’s balanced by the creamy sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the chili powder or choose a milder sausage variety.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free penne pasta, and double-check that your Andouille sausage and other ingredients don’t contain gluten. The sauce and other components are naturally gluten-free.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have Monterey Jack?

Monterey Jack melts wonderfully, but you can swap it with mild cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you want a little extra kick in your cheese.

Can I add vegetables other than bell peppers?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn to boost the veggie content and add different textures.

Final Thoughts

This Andouille Fajita Pasta is a celebration of flavors and textures that makes every bite feel special yet effortlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this dish delivers warmth, spice, and creaminess all in one bowl. Trust me, once you try it, Andouille Fajita Pasta will become a cherished recipe in your repertoire, perfect for cozy evenings or anytime you want a meal that feels like a party on your plate.

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