One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Sausage Pasta is everything you want in a quick and easy meal: flavorful, comforting, and versatile. The smoky sausage, bold Cajun seasoning, and creamy sauce create a delightful combination of savory and spicy. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 10 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa)

• 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)

• ½ cup diced onion

• 2 cups chicken broth (add more if needed)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Chop the bell peppers and onions. Measure out Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and cheese.

2. Cook the Sausage and Veggies: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the sausage until browned. Remove the sausage and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté the diced bell peppers and onions until softened.

3. Create the Base: Add Cajun seasoning to the veggies and stir well. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

4. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta directly to the pot. Cook until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more chicken broth if necessary.

5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

6. Return the Sausage to the Pot: Add the sausage back into the pot and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.

7. Serve and Garnish: Top with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative or skip it altogether and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

• Spicy Kick: If you love spice, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

• Cheese Options: You can substitute Parmesan with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

• Greens: Add spinach, kale, or even arugula for extra nutrients and a burst of color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the pasta as it cooks. For an even spicier kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular penne or rigatoni to make the dish gluten-free.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream and cheese alternative, such as coconut cream and vegan cheese.

Can I use different sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of smoked sausage you prefer, like kielbasa, or even turkey sausage.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or rigatoni works best due to their larger tubes that hold the sauce well. However, you can also use other short pasta like fusilli or farfalle.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and sausage mixture ahead of time. Just cook the pasta and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month. Be sure to store them in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add more bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. You can toss the vegetables in when you sauté the onions and peppers.

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute light cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

What should I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With smoky sausage, a rich and creamy sauce, and a kick of Cajun spice, this pasta is satisfying and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or serving it to guests, it’s sure to impress with its bold flavors and minimal cleanup.