Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli is a bold, comforting, and indulgent one-pan pasta dish that brings together tender cheese ravioli, savory Italian sausage, and a velvety Cajun-spiced cream sauce. With just the right balance of heat, creaminess, and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or family dinners. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s restaurant-quality comfort food made right at home.

Ingredients

For the Ravioli:

• 1 lb (450g) cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1 — Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook ravioli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 — Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and crumble the sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Remove excess grease if needed.

Step 3 — Add Aromatics

Stir in diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds.

Step 4 — Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5 — Add Cheese

Slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes thick, smooth, and creamy.

Step 6 — Combine

Gently fold in cooked ravioli, making sure every piece is coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.

Step 7 — Serve

Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper. Serve hot.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ravioli for the creamiest texture.
• If sauce is too thick, add ¼ cup pasta water or extra broth.
• For extra heat, add ½ tsp cayenne pepper.
• Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of sausage?
Yes — Cajun chicken works beautifully.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Use plant-based sausage or mushrooms instead.

3. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, but choose a low-sodium version.

4. What pasta can I use instead of ravioli?
Fettuccine, penne, or tortellini are great substitutes.

5. Is this dish spicy?
Mild with a warm kick — adjust spice to taste.