One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Short Description

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together smoky sausage, bold Cajun spices, and a rich, creamy sauce—all in just one pot! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe is packed with comforting flavors and minimal cleanup, making it a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy schedule.
• One-Pot Convenience: Fewer dishes to wash means less cleanup time.
• Bold and Spicy: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, perfectly balanced by the creamy sauce.
• Family-Friendly: The heat level can be adjusted to suit different preferences.
• Customizable: Swap out the sausage or pasta type to cater to dietary needs and preferences.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa)
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell pepper
• Cajun seasoning
• Paprika
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Diced tomatoes (with juices)
• Uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Sauté the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Season the Dish: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes over the vegetables, stirring to coat them evenly.
4. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer Until Tender: Cover and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Try using shrimp or chicken instead of sausage for a different take.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or mushrooms and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Choices: Instead of Parmesan, try cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder taste.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best, but you can experiment with others.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked andouille sausage provides the most authentic Cajun flavor, but kielbasa or chorizo work well too.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let the pasta cook uncovered for a few minutes at the end, or stir in a bit of extra Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Reduce the spice level if serving to children.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this meal well.

Conclusion

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a delicious, fuss-free meal that combines bold flavors with creamy, comforting textures. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for any night of the week. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful dish with your family and friends!

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