# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Sausage
02 - 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
→ Sauce
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
06 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
08 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
→ Vegetables & Garnish
11 - 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
13 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
# Directions:
01 - Boil penne in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook smoked sausage slices until browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
03 - Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, and melt. Add minced garlic and sauté until aromatic, approximately 30 seconds.
04 - Stir in heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer.
05 - Lower heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese gradually until sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Return sausage to the skillet, add the drained penne, and toss to coat evenly. Fold in baby spinach if using, stirring until wilted.
07 - Taste and modify seasonings as desired. Serve garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
