08/24/2026
Creamy Sausage Fajita Pasta
Creamy pasta, smoky fajita-seasoned sausage, colorful peppers, and onions come together in a rich, satisfying dinner that's perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
For 6 Servings
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Instructions
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
Add the onion and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the garlic, fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well.
Add the cream cheese and butter, stirring until the cream cheese melts into the sauce.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the Monterey Jack and cheddar until melted.
Add the cooked pasta and toss until completely coated.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Tips
Use smoked sausage for extra depth and a lightly smoky flavor.
Don't overcook the peppers; keeping them slightly crisp adds better texture.
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce.
Add sliced jalapeños if you want extra heat.
Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
Serving Info
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes