One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta: 7 Steps to Comfort

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta: 7 Steps to Comfort
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 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

14 września, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta! It’s like a warm hug on a plate—rich, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to whip up! Seriously, if you’re looking for a meal that comes together in a snap but delivers big on taste, this is it. I remember the first time I made it; I had a bunch of friends over, and we were all craving something hearty yet simple. I wanted to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen, and this dish totally saved the day! The smoky sausage combined with that creamy sauce and a hint of Cajun spice just makes my taste buds dance with joy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want it in your regular dinner rotation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something comforting and delicious without the fuss. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delightful one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta! Here’s what you’ll need:

12 oz penne pasta: This shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap with your favorite pasta if you like!
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced: I love using a good quality smoked sausage for that delicious depth of flavor. You can go with chicken, turkey, or pork—whatever you fancy!
1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to brown the sausage and adds a lovely richness to the dish.
1 onion, diced: A sweet onion works wonders here, bringing a lovely base flavor to the pot.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better! It’ll infuse the pasta with a wonderful aroma.
1 bell pepper, diced: I usually go for a red or yellow pepper for a pop of color and sweetness, but any variety will do!
2 cups chicken broth: This is the liquid gold that forms the base of your sauce. Low-sodium is a great choice to keep it balanced.
1 cup heavy cream: Oh boy, this is where the creaminess comes in! It makes the sauce rich and decadent.
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: This is the star of the show! Adjust to your taste; more for spice, less for a milder flavor.
1 cup shredded cheese: I like a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect melty goodness, but use whatever cheese you love!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go! A little seasoning can elevate the dish beautifully.

Now that you’ve got the ingredients ready, you’re all set to create this mouthwatering dish! Let’s move on to the next step!

How to Prepare one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is as easy as pie (well, maybe easier!). Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Heat the olive oil: Start by heating that lovely tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. It should shimmer a bit but not smoke. This is your starting point for all the flavor!
Brown the sausage: Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and cook it until it’s nicely browned—about 5 minutes. You want it to get those delicious caramelized edges because that’s where the flavor magic happens!
Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper: Next up, throw in the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Cook everything together for about 3–4 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Yum!
Stir in the pasta and seasoning: Now, it’s time to add the penne pasta and the Cajun seasoning. Stir everything well so that the pasta is coated in that spicy goodness. This is where the fun begins!
Add the chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This should take just a couple of minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overflow—oops!
Simmer until the pasta is cooked: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to be al dente, so keep checking it! If the liquid gets too low, feel free to add a splash more broth.
Stir in the cream and cheese: When the pasta is cooked to your liking, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix it all together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and dreamy!
Season to taste: Finally, give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. This step is crucial—trust your palate! If you like it spicier, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning.

And there you have it! Your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is ready to be devoured. Ladle it into bowls, maybe sprinkle a bit more cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent, and enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation time: This one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Rich and bold flavors: The combination of smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and Cajun spices create an irresistible flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
One pot wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and easier cleanup! You’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
Customizable: This recipe is super versatile—you can swap in different proteins, veggies, or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Leftovers are fantastic: If you happen to have any leftovers, they taste even better the next day! Just reheat and savor the flavors all over again.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy all appetites!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all geared up to make this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta, here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results every single time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference in your cooking experience!

Don’t rush the browning: When you cook the sausage, give it enough time to brown nicely. This step is crucial for developing flavor, so don’t skip it or turn the heat up too high—it might burn instead of caramelize!
Watch your liquid levels: Keep an eye on the broth as the pasta cooks. If it looks like it’s getting too thick or the liquid is evaporating too quickly, add a splash more chicken broth or water to keep it saucy and creamy.
Adjust the spice to your taste: The Cajun seasoning can really pack a punch, so start with the recommended amount and taste as you go. If you like it spicier, add more, but if you’re serving family or friends who might prefer it milder, you can always serve extra seasoning on the side!
Let it rest: After cooking, let the pasta sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken up a bit more and makes for a creamier overall texture!
Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add in some veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes right before you stir in the cream and cheese. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition without much extra effort!
Store it properly: If you have leftovers (which you might not, because it’s so good!), let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help preserve that creamy goodness!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a fantastic dish that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is how easily you can customize it to fit your cravings or what’s in your fridge! Here are some fun variations and ideas to mix things up:

Different Sausages: Swap out the smoked sausage for andouille for extra heat or go with chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can even use Italian sausage for a different flavor profile—just make sure it’s cooked through!
Swap the Pasta: While I adore penne, you can use any pasta shape you love! Fusilli, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta will work beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
Add Extra Veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition and color. Just toss them in when you’re adding the cream and cheese so they have time to wilt and soften.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta: For a seafood twist, toss in some shrimp in place of the sausage! Just add them in when you’re cooking the veggies, and they’ll cook up perfectly in no time.
Spicy Kick: Want to turn up the heat? Try adding in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce right before serving. You could also swap in a spicier Cajun seasoning blend if you like it fiery!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or green onions make a lovely garnish and can add a burst of fresh flavor. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for an extra pop!

These variations let you get creative and make this dish your own! Don’t be afraid to experiment—I can’t wait to see what delicious combinations you come up with!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store and reheat that delicious one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), you want to make sure they stay just as tasty as when you first made them.

First things first, let the pasta cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to label it, so you don’t forget about that creamy goodness hiding in there!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple! You can either:

Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a paper towel (to keep the moisture in), and heat it in 30-second intervals. Stir in between until it’s warmed through. If it looks a bit dry, splash in a tiny bit of chicken broth or cream to bring back that luscious sauce!
Stovetop: For a more even reheat, toss it in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help rehydrate the pasta and stir occasionally until heated through. This method might take a bit longer, but it keeps the texture nice and creamy.

And there you have it! Storing and reheating your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is a breeze, ensuring you can enjoy those flavors all over again. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to the one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I can’t provide exact numbers, I can share some typical values to give you an idea of what you’re getting in each delicious serving!

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Fat: About 30g
Saturated Fat: Around 15g
Carbohydrates: Roughly 60g
Protein: Estimated at 25g
Sugar: About 3g
Sodium: Approximately 1000mg
Fiber: Around 3g
Cholesterol: About 80mg

These values are just a guide, and you can always adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Enjoy this flavorful dish while keeping in mind what works best for you! Happy cooking and eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve come across, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While I love the smoky flavor of traditional smoked sausage, you can easily swap it out for andouille sausage for a spicier kick, or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the pot!

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

No problem! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the spices to your taste for that perfect flavor profile!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Of course! To make a vegetarian version of this one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta, simply omit the sausage and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein, like tempeh or mushrooms. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor and texture!

How do I make it dairy-free?

If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, try using a dairy-free cheese that melts well, and you’ll still get that creamy goodness!

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! This one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta is great for feeding a crowd. Just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients, and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed. You’ll have plenty to share (or save for leftovers)!

There you go! With these answers, I hope you feel ready to tackle any questions you might have while making this delicious dish. Enjoy every bite of your one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta!

one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta - detail 1
Check out this creamy truffle pasta recipe for more delicious ideas!
Explore this vegetable pasta recipe for a healthy twist!
Try this chicken in mushroom sauce for another comforting meal!

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O mnie

Cześć, nazywam się Julia, jestem sercem Vihaad Rrzepisy i pasjonatką dobrej kuchni. Moja miłość do gotowania zaczęła się w dzieciństwie, inspirowana pysznymi posiłkami mojej babci. Dziś dzielę się smacznymi przepisami, które łączą ludzi poprzez wspólne delektowanie się jedzeniem.