Introduction
Craving something creamy, spicy, and comforting — without all the cleanup? 😍
This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just one pan. With smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a rich Cajun cream sauce, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner for anyone who loves bold Southern flavors.
This Louisiana-inspired classic has become one of the most popular pasta dishes online, with searches for “Cajun pasta” soaring by over 80% in the past year. Why? Because it’s fast, filling, and absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients List
For 4 Servings
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 14 oz (400 g) smoked sausage (like andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lb (450 g) short pasta (penne or rotini)
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Flavor Tip: Use andouille sausage for authentic Cajun smokiness.
Timing ⏰
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
➡️ A full-flavored dinner in just half an hour — one pot, zero stress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Pro Tip: Browning the sausage first releases flavorful oils that form the base of your sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices & Pasta
Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Cream & Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined.
Add the cooked sausage back to the pan, followed by shredded cheese. Stir gently over low heat until creamy and thick.
Chef’s Secret: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve immediately.
Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Nutrition Insight: High in protein and calcium — this dish keeps you full while satisfying those creamy pasta cravings.
Healthier Variations 🥗
- Lighten It Up: Use half cream + half milk.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Low-Carb: Replace pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add cayenne or hot sauce for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve with garlic toast or crusty baguette.
- Add a side of Cajun coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for that gooey finish.
Hosting Tip: Keep the dish warm in a covered skillet — the sauce stays creamy for up to an hour!
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Overcooking pasta: It will soak up too much sauce and lose texture.
- Skipping the sear: Sausage flavor develops best when browned.
- Not stirring enough: Pasta can stick at the bottom if left unattended.
- Adding cream too early: Can curdle — always add at the end.
Storage & Reheating 🧊
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (best without the cream; add it when reheating).
- Reheat: In a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.
Conclusion
Creamy, spicy, and bursting with flavor — this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is everything you want in a comfort meal. 🍝🔥
Minimal dishes, maximum flavor — a quick and hearty dinner your family will ask for again and again!
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