Dive into the rich, comforting flavors of Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta—a one-pot meal that’s bursting with bold spices, smoky sausage, and silky, luscious sauce. This dish perfectly marries the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the creamy indulgence of cheese and cream, all tossed with tender pasta that soaks up every bit of the sauce. Easy to make yet packed with complex flavors, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle. Whether you’re craving a spicy twist on classic comfort food or looking to impress with minimal effort, this creamy Cajun pasta will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Family-friendly: Loved by spice lovers and comfort food fans alike.
One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Creamy, indulgent sauce: Rich and smooth, coating every strand of pasta.
Hearty and satisfying: A filling meal that warms you up from the inside out.
Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy evenings.
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Spicy Cajun sausage takes center stage, packing bold flavor in every juicy bite.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Penne pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
Smoked sausage: Adds a rich, smoky flavor. You can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Olive oil: A staple for sautéing, it adds a touch of healthy fat and flavor.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the pasta with aromatic goodness.
Bell pepper: Any color works! It adds crunch and a pop of color.
Cajun seasoning: This spice blend is the star of the show, delivering that signature kick.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
Black pepper and salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and a tangy flavor, making the sauce rich.
Chicken broth: This is the base of your sauce, adding depth and savory notes.
Heavy cream: The secret to creaminess! It makes the dish indulgent and smooth.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a cheesy richness that ties everything together.
Green onions: Sliced for garnish, they add a fresh crunch and a hint of onion flavor.
Feel free to get creative! For a spicier kick, toss in some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
And if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Creating this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a breeze.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the sliced smoked sausage.
Cook it for about 5 minutes until it’s nicely browned.
This step adds a rich flavor to your dish.
When done, remove the sausage and set it aside.
You’ll add it back later, so don’t worry!
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper.
Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
This will give your pasta a fragrant kick.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Now it’s time to spice things up!
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
This step is crucial for bringing out those bold flavors.
You’ll want to make sure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Broth
Add the penne pasta, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook for 12-15 minutes.
Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, it’s time to make it creamy.
Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage.
Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Watch it melt into a creamy, dreamy sauce!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is ready to shine!
Scoop it into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions.
This adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
Serve it hot and enjoy every delicious bite.
You’ve just created a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Don’t skip toasting the spices; it enhances their flavor.
Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or cheese.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
Let leftovers sit overnight; the flavors deepen and improve.
Equipment Needed
Large pot or deep skillet: A sturdy one is essential for even cooking. A Dutch oven works great too!
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up those delicious bits from the bottom.
Measuring cups: Handy for precise ingredient measurements, especially for liquids.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping veggies and sausage.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the smoked sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or crawfish for a delightful seafood version that pairs perfectly with the Cajun spices.
Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.
Presentation: Garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
FAQs about Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Can I make this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This one-pot pasta is perfect for meal prep. Divide it into individual portions and store them in the fridge. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While penne works great, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you crave more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
What can I serve with Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or even some roasted vegetables. A chilled glass of white wine or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy.
The rich, creamy sauce and smoky sausage come together to form a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, each bite is a reminder of the comfort food we all crave.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors, and let this one-pot wonder become a staple in your kitchen.
Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll cherish for years to come!
A delicious one-pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
Add the penne pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the heavy cream and cooked sausage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
You can substitute the smoked sausage with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
