Print

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, hearty dish combining smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. This easy-to-make meal comes together in a single pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights while delivering a comforting, spicy Southern-inspired taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Pasta

  • 10 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into thin rounds
  • 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth (add more if needed)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Optional Additions

  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Chop the bell peppers and onions. Measure out Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and shredded Parmesan cheese to have everything ready before cooking.
  2. Cook the Sausage and Veggies: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and sauté them until they are browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same pot, add bell peppers and onions and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Create the Base: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper over the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine and release the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the spices to infuse the broth.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta directly to the pot with the simmering broth and vegetables. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta in the broth according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it is al dente. Add more broth or water as needed if the liquid absorbs too quickly.
  5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt completely and the sauce to thicken. If using, add fresh spinach at this stage and cook until wilted.
  6. Return the Sausage to the Pot and Mix: Add the browned sausage back into the creamy pasta mixture. Stir well to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy Cajun sausage pasta onto plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor and color. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use Andouille sausage for a spicier, authentic Cajun flavor, or kielbasa for a milder taste.
  • If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
  • Adding fresh spinach boosts nutrition and adds nice color; you can also add other greens like kale.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun pasta, sausage pasta, creamy pasta, one pot meal, easy dinner, spicy pasta, Andouille sausage, one pot Cajun pasta

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/one-pot-creamy-cajun-sausage-pasta-recipe/