This Cajun-inspired spicy Alfredo sauce is the creamiest you’ve ever had and simply bursting with flavor! It’s also super simple to make for a cozy treat at the end of a busy day.

There’s nothing a bowl of creamy pasta can’t make better, and this spicy Alfredo sauce has been one of my family favorites for years.

And there’s a good reason for that! It’s a super easy recipe that I can whip up in about 30 minutes, and it’s so forgiving, too.

I can add extra veggies or adjust the amount of heat to suit picky eaters. We mostly love spicy food in our home,e but if you’re not a fan, you can dial it down and still get a lot of flavor.

I typically make this creamy spicy Alfredo sauce with chorizo, but any other type of spicy sausage would do. You can also make it with shrimp or chicken if you like.

Why you’ll love this spicy Alfredo sauce

It’s comfort food at its best with just enough kick to keep things interesting, perfect for busy weeknights.
The sauce is deliciously creamy without feeling too heavy.
Kids love it just as much as adults, so it’s always a family-approved dinner.

What you’ll need

Penne pasta – I love penne because the ridges help the sauce cling perfectly; rotini or farfalle work nicely, too.

Spicy smoked sausage – I prefer smoked sausage because it adds heat and a delicious smoky flavor at the same time.

Half and half – Half and half gives the sauce just enough creaminess without being overly heavy.

Taco seasoning – Use your favorite here to suit your taste for spiciness. I typically go for medium spiced.

Garlic – Fresh garlic adds loads of flavor; just be careful not to burn it!

Parmesan – I grate it fresh because it melts better into the sauce, and the salty flavor is right on point.

Pro tip

If your Alfredo sauce gets too thick, whisk in a splash of reserved pasta water until it's perfectly creamy again.

How to make spicy alfredo sauce

This is a quick overview with step-by-step photos. See the recipe card below for full ingredients and instructions.

Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Meanwhile, cook the sausage slices in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crispy, then remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant.

Pour in the half and half, taco seasoning, oregano, black pepper, and salt; simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce then add the cooked sausage and grated Parmesan. Finish with parsley and serve hot!

Substitutions and variations

Feel free to swap the spicy sausage for chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon; whatever you have or love most!
If fiery heat isn’t your thing, use regular smoked sausage or mild kielbasa, and ease up on the taco seasoning.
Add in some sneaky veggies like zucchini, mushrooms or baby spinach.

Tips for the best Cajun alfredo sauce

Make sure your cream is at room temperature when you add it to the pan to avoid splitting.
Simmer your sauce gently so it ends up super creamy; boiling it too hard may cause the half and half to separate.
Cook your pasta just shy of done because it will finish cooking in your sauce.

Leftovers and storage

This pasta dish is best served immediately!
If you do have leftovers, they will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Reheat in short bursts in the microwave until piping hot.

More cozy pasta recipes

If you’ve tried this spicy Alfredo sauce recipe, please rate it and leave a comment below! I’d love to hear how it turned out.

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Spicy Alfredo Sauce