One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta That Will Delight You

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta That Will Delight You
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

septembre 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight comfort food: one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta! This dish is like a flavor explosion in your mouth—creamy, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying. I love how easy it is to whip up in just one pot, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying that deliciousness. The smoky sausage pairs perfectly with the vibrant cajun seasoning, making every bite a little party on your taste buds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to dive into this recipe and discover how simple and scrumptious it truly is!

one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta - detail 1

Ingredients List

12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto that creamy sauce and all the flavors.
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced: I love using a good quality smoked sausage for that deep, rich flavor. You can opt for spicy or mild, depending on your taste!
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; I usually go for a yellow onion, but any variety will work.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings an aromatic punch that makes this dish irresistible.
1 bell pepper, diced: I like using a red or green bell pepper for a pop of color and crunch.
2 cups chicken broth: This is the base of our sauce, so go for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake!
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the pasta creamy and dreamy. You can substitute with half-and-half, but it won’t be quite as rich.
1 tablespoon cajun seasoning: Adjust this to your spice preference! I love a good kick, but you can always start with less and add more.
1 cup grated parmesan cheese: This adds a wonderful nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated is the best!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking. A little sprinkle goes a long way!
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and veggies; it adds a lovely richness to the dish.

How to Prepare the One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

First things first, heat up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, but not smoking!
Next, toss in the sliced smoked sausage and let it cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 5–7 minutes. That’s when the magic begins, and your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Now, add in the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté everything together for about 3–5 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant. Don’t rush this step; it’s where all those flavors meld together!
Once the veggies are soft, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle in the cajun seasoning. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. Wow, it’s looking delicious already!
Now, it’s time to add the penne pasta! Stir it in, making sure it’s well coated in that creamy goodness. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t stick!
When the pasta is cooked just right, stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Oh my gosh, this is the best part!
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips:

Adjust the Spice: If you’re unsure about the heat, start with a little less cajun seasoning and add more as you taste. You can always kick it up a notch later, but it’s hard to dial it back once it’s in!
Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the pasta while it’s simmering. Stirring occasionally helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You want that perfect al dente texture!
Try Different Sausages: Don’t hesitate to play around with different types of sausage. Chicken sausage, andouille, or even turkey sausage can give you different flavors and make it your own!
Vegetable Variations: Want to sneak in some greens? Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt perfectly into the creamy sauce!
Cheese Swap: If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with other cheeses like gouda or a spicy pepper jack for a fun twist!
Leftovers Love: This dish is great for meal prep! Just make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to bring back that creamy consistency.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a deliciously creamy and flavorful pasta dish that everyone will love!

Variations

One of the best things about my one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to customize this delicious dish:

Protein Swaps: Instead of smoked sausage, try using sliced chicken breast or shrimp for a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some crawfish for that authentic Cajun flair!
Veggie Add-Ins: Want to boost the nutrition? Add in some diced zucchini or mushrooms along with the bell pepper. You could also toss in some frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness!
Spice Blend Variations: Not in the mood for cajun seasoning? Experiment with Italian seasoning or a bit of chili powder for a different kick. You could also add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix it up with different cheeses! Try adding some creamy goat cheese or a handful of shredded cheddar for a twist on the usual parmesan. Just imagine the melty goodness!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your dish even more! Stir in some chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

These variations make it easy to keep this dish exciting and tailored to your preferences. So, don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is ready to shine, let’s talk about how to serve it up and make it even more delightful! I love pairing this dish with a few simple sides that complement the rich flavors and creamy texture.

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, buttery garlic bread on the side! It’s perfect for scooping up that delicious sauce left on your plate.
Simple Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving some roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. They add color to your plate and a lovely earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
Parmesan Crisps: For a fun garnish, try making some homemade parmesan crisps! Just bake small piles of grated parmesan until they’re golden and crispy. They make a great crunchy topping!
Fresh Herbs: Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top of your pasta just before serving. It adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that elevates the whole dish.

These serving suggestions will take your meal to the next level, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store your delicious one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta so you can enjoy those leftovers without losing any of that amazing flavor! First things first, once the pasta has cooled down a bit, transfer it into an airtight container. This is key for keeping it fresh and tasty.

You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly so it doesn’t pick up any funky fridge odors! If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just portion it out in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It should stay good for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend doing it on the stovetop for the best results. Just add your leftover pasta to a pan over medium heat, and stir in a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to help bring back that creamy texture. Keep stirring until it’s heated through—this usually takes about 5–7 minutes. You could also microwave it, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.

And there you have it—simple storage and reheating tips to ensure your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta stays just as delicious the second time around!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional data for my one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 900mg

This dish is hearty and filling, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something comforting and satisfying. Just remember, you can always adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs! Enjoy!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love penne for this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta, you can easily swap it out for other shapes like fusilli or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different pastas may require slightly different cooking durations!

What if I don’t have smoked sausage?
No worries! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, like Italian sausage or chicken sausage. If you want to keep it vegetarian, you could even try using a meat alternative or skip the sausage altogether and add more veggies!

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this dish ahead of time! Just follow the recipe up until the point of adding the cheese. Store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop, adding the cheese and stirring until it’s melty and creamy.

How can I make it spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add more cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top just before serving for an extra kick!

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce has thickened more than you’d like, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. This will help bring back that luscious creaminess we all love!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.