One pot dishes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta does not disappoint. With smoky sausage, zesty Cajun seasoning, and creamy sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that bursts with flavor and comfort. Plus, you’ll have just one pot to clean up afterward!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550
- Protein: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 60 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta combines the robust flavors of Cajun cuisine with the creamy texture of a hearty pasta dish. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for families. Enjoy the smoky notes from the sausage and the rich creaminess that envelops each bite. It’s a delightful way to bring a dash of the south to your dinner table!
How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Making this pasta dish requires minimal effort and maximizes flavor. Just one pot does the trick, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. This will help in cooking the sausage perfectly and adding flavor to the dish.
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Step 2: Cooking the Sausage
Add sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned. The sausage will release its rich, smoky flavor, adding depth to your sauce.
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Step 3: Sautéing Vegetables
Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until softened. This step will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
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Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning to the pot. Mix everything well. The broth will create a flavorful base for your pasta.
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Step 5: Cooking to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened. It should take about 10-12 minutes.
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Step 6: Seasoning
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust to your preference for extra flavour.
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Step 7: Serving
Serve garnished with chopped green onions and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the creamy richness that envelops each bite!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving alongside garlic bread or a simple green salad for a balanced dinner. For a bit of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
How to Store One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
Expert Tips for Perfect One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
- Use a good quality smoked sausage for the best flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey sausage works well too.
- Feel free to add additional vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it spicier by adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you want a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based milk, though keep in mind the richness may change.
Delicious Variations
- Seafood Cajun Pasta: Substitute sausage with shrimp or a combination of shrimp and scallops for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with zucchini, bell basil, or your favorite vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne is recommended, feel free to use any short pasta, like fusilli or rotini. Cooking times may vary slightly. -
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can easily make your own Cajun spice mix using paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the pasta with a gluten-free alternative. -
Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Absolutely! Stir in some cream cheese or shredded cheddar for an even creamier sauce. -
How do I know when the pasta is done?
The pasta should be al dente, which means it’s cooked but still firm when bitten. Taste for the desired texture as different pasta types can have varying cooking times.
Conclusion
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a wonderful dish that brings bold flavors and creamy comfort to your dinner table. Its simplicity makes it perfect for any night of the week, and the cleanup is a breeze. Dive into this delicious meal and enjoy the symphony of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends! Give it a try and make your weeknight meals something special!
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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
- Author: lydia
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful one pot dish with smoky sausage, zesty Cajun seasoning, and creamy sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
- Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning to the pot. Mix everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve garnished with chopped green onions and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a healthier option, use turkey sausage. Add additional vegetables for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg





