One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta: 30-Minute Delight

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta: 30-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta; 1 pound Cajun 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; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

September 26, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet can be thrown together in no time, let me introduce you to my one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta! This meal is not only delicious but also a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and one pot, you’ll have a rich, creamy dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. The best part? You can whip it up in about 30 minutes! Trust me, once you take that first bite of the spicy sausage mingling with the creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, you’ll be hooked! It’s comfort food at its finest, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

one pot creamy cajun sausage pasta - detail 1

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

12 ounces penne pasta
1 pound Cajun sausage, sliced (I love using Andouille for that extra kick!)
1 tablespoon olive oil (just enough to get things sizzling!)
1 onion, diced (this adds a lovely sweetness)
3 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like, but I’m partial to red for the sweetness)
2 cups chicken broth (homemade if you have it, but store-bought works too)
1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (this is where the magic happens! Adjust to your spice level)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to taste as you go!)
Parmesan cheese, for serving (grated on top for that cheesy goodness)

How to Prepare One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta. It might seem simple, but each step builds the flavor and brings this dish to life. Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through it all!

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

First off, grab a large pot and heat that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This step is crucial! Preheating the pot not only helps to get a nice sizzle when the sausage hits the pan but also enhances the overall flavor of your dish. You’ll want to hear that satisfying sound when you add the sausage—trust me, it’s music to a cook’s ears!

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Once your pot is nice and hot, toss in the sliced Cajun sausage. You’re looking for it to get beautifully browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring it around so it doesn’t stick, and watch for that delightful caramelization! It’s that golden color that adds a depth of flavor you won’t want to miss.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next up, it’s time to add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. You’ll love how the aroma fills your kitchen; it’s like a warm hug! Make sure to stir frequently so nothing burns. The sweetness of the onion and the aromatic garlic will create a perfect base for this dish.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasoning

Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then sprinkle in that Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together so it’s well combined. Bringing this mixture to a gentle boil is important; it melds those flavors beautifully! Just let it bubble away for a moment while you admire the creamy goodness forming.

Step 5: Incorporate the Pasta

Here comes the fun part—add your penne pasta directly into the pot! Make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Let it come back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. This is where the magic happens as the pasta absorbs all those flavors while cooking. It should take about 10-12 minutes to cook to al dente perfection. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!

Step 6: Simmer and Season

As the pasta simmers, keep an eye on it and taste for doneness. If it needs a little more love, let it simmer a few more minutes. This is also the perfect time to adjust your seasoning. A pinch of salt and pepper can make all the difference! Just remember, taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure your dish is just right!

Step 7: Serve with Parmesan

Once everything is cooked and creamy, it’s time to plate up! Serve your pasta hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch adds a delightful richness and a bit of salty flavor that perfectly complements the dish. Feel free to personalize your bowl—maybe a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra dash of Cajun seasoning if you’re feeling spicy!

Nutritional Information for One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Alright, let’s talk numbers! This one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta is not just a delight for your taste buds but also has some nutritional information to consider. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind these values are estimates, so they might vary a bit based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg

So there you have it! A hearty meal that satisfies your hunger and gives you a good boost of energy. Perfect for those busy days when you need something filling and flavorful, without the guilt. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich, creamy flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
One pot means less cleanup—yay for that!
Versatile: you can easily swap in chicken or shrimp for variety.
Customizable with your favorite veggies—spinach, peas, or even some sun-dried tomatoes add great flavor!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, great for family dinners or when you have friends over.
Full of protein and hearty enough to satisfy any appetite.
Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks! For al dente perfection, check it a minute or two before the package instructions say. You want it to have a slight bite to it since it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Taste as You Go: This is key! As you’re cooking, take a moment to taste your dish. Adjust the seasonings to your liking—maybe you want it spicier or a bit more salty! Your palate is the best guide.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage. Fresh produce not only elevates the flavor but also adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
Let It Rest: After you’ve finished cooking, let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken up a bit and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Customize Your Cajun Seasoning: If you have a favorite store-bought Cajun seasoning blend, go for it! Or, if you feel adventurous, mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme for a personalized twist.
Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and let them sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors intensify, and trust me, it’ll taste even better the next day!

With these tips, I’m confident you’ll create a dish that’s not just good, but absolutely mouthwatering. Happy cooking!

Variations on One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Now, let’s get creative! One of the things I love about this one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta is how versatile it can be. You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some of my favorite variations to try:

Chicken or Shrimp: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the Cajun sausage with sliced chicken breast or shrimp. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp only needs a few minutes to cook through, while chicken should be cooked until no longer pink.
Vegetable Medley: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some fresh spinach, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes. Just add them after the sausage is browned and sauté for a couple of minutes before adding your liquids.
Spicy Kick: For those who really want to turn up the heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce along with the Cajun seasoning. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy Dream: If you’re a fan of extra creaminess, try mixing in some cream cheese or mascarpone cheese at the end for a richer sauce. It melts beautifully and takes the creaminess to another level!
Gluten-Free Options: If you’re avoiding gluten, swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are so many great options out there, and they cook up beautifully in this dish!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the dish. Just stir them in right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own! Each variation can bring something unique to the table, making it a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta, you might be wondering how to store those tasty leftovers. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage is key to keeping all those flavors intact for another day.

First, let the pasta cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your pasta soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—trust me, it’ll taste even better as the flavors meld together!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them is a breeze. I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just add your pasta to a pan over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to rehydrate the sauce. Stir it gently until heated through. This way, you’ll maintain that creamy texture without drying it out!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop your pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of liquid to keep it moist, cover it with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your one pot creamy Cajun sausage pasta even after the first serving. Enjoy every bite, once again!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.