One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes. Combining spicy sausage, tender pasta, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a comforting Cajun-inspired dish.

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 low-sodium 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)
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Chop the bell peppers and onions. Measure out Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and sauté until browned. Remove sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. Step 3: Add the diced bell peppers and onions to the same pot. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and garlic powder.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Step 5: Add the pasta directly to the pot. Cook until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, about 10-12 minutes. Add more broth if needed to keep the pasta moist.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cayenne pepper if using. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and mix well until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.
7. Step 7: If using, fold in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or extra cayenne as desired.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked sausage like Andouille for authentic Cajun flavor, or substitute with kielbasa or chorizo for a different twist.
• Add fresh or frozen corn kernels for a sweet crunch.
• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but reduce quantity slightly to keep sauce creamy.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting sausage and using vegetable broth with extra mushrooms or zucchini.
• Leftover pasta thickens as it cools; add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, rotini, or even farfalle works well in this dish. Adjust cooking time as needed based on pasta shape.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that the sausage and Cajun seasoning do not contain gluten ingredients.

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

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This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that combines smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and packed with vibrant bell peppers and optional fresh spinach for a nutritious twist.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sausage and Vegetables

• 10 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into thin rounds
• 1 cup diced bell peppers, mixed colors
• ½ cup diced onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pasta and Seasoning

• 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

Liquids and Cheese

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (add more if needed)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Optional and Garnish

• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds, chop the bell peppers and onions, and measure out the Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to have everything ready for cooking.
2. Cook the Sausage and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and flavorful. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same pot, add the diced bell peppers and onions and sauté until they are softened and fragrant.
3. Create the Base: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the sautéed veggies, stirring to coat evenly. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to combine the flavors.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the dry pasta directly to the simmering pot. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed much of the flavorful broth. Add extra broth if the pasta needs more liquid to cook.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the sausage to the pot and gently mix everything together. If using, stir in the fresh spinach at this stage, allowing it to wilt slightly.
6. Final Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding salt, as the cheese and sausage add saltiness. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if necessary, and add black pepper or cayenne pepper to your preference for heat.
7. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy Cajun sausage pasta into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes for an additional kick of flavor.

Notes

• Use Andouille or kielbasa sausage for authentic smoky flavor.
• Feel free to substitute pasta types, but choose short pasta like penne or rigatoni for best results.
• If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative.
• Adding fresh spinach boosts nutrition and adds a fresh green color; omit if undesired.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level—omit for mild tastes.
• This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Cajun sausage pasta, creamy pasta, one pot pasta, smoked sausage recipe, quick dinner, easy Cajun recipe