Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

A Flavorful and Easy One-Pot Meal

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines bold Cajun spices, smoky sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce. The one-pot method makes cleanup a breeze while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or something quick and delicious, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience – Fewer dishes mean an easier cleanup.
• Bold flavors – The Cajun seasoning and smoked sausage create a mouthwatering combination.
• Creamy and satisfying – The luscious sauce coats every bite of pasta.
• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the sausage and vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seasonings: Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, allowing them to toast for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
4. Simmer with liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Incorporate cream and cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked sausage. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Variations

• Protein swap: Substitute sausage with shrimp or grilled chicken for a different twist.
• Spice control: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
• Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of pork.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowtie works best as it holds the sauce well.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and use a milder sausage variety.

What’s the best sausage to use?

Andouille sausage provides the most authentic Cajun flavor, but kielbasa or smoked turkey sausage are great alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a bit of chicken broth or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

Is there a way to add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

What should I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes, but you may need to add a bit more liquid.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking to ensure the pasta doesn’t clump together.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a fantastic one-pot meal that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal with every bite.

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