Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

• Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, toss in the sliced smoked sausage. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
• Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. This step ensures the sausage stays juicy but gets that delicious crispy exterior.
• In the same pan, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Cajun Seasoning

• Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the sautéed vegetables. Stir to coat everything in the spices. This is where the magic starts happening—the seasoning releases its smoky, spicy aroma, giving you a preview of what’s to come.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The cream balances the spice of the Cajun seasoning, creating a velvety sauce.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, but remember that the sausage and Parmesan are already salty, so go easy at first.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

• Add the penne pasta directly into the pot. Stir to ensure it’s evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook over medium heat for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• If the sauce gets too thick before the pasta is cooked, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

• Once the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the cooked sausage. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding a rich, savory flavor that ties everything together.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want more spice, sprinkle in a pinch of Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

• Dish up the pasta while it’s hot, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with extra Parmesan on the side for anyone who wants to sprinkle on more cheesy goodness.