One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

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When it comes to comfort food with a fiery kick, this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is in a league of its own. Juicy sausage slices, perfectly al dente pasta, and a rich Cajun cream sauce come together in just one pan, making this dish irresistibly flavorful and incredibly easy to clean up. The smoky spice of Cajun seasoning pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, giving you a weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant treat.

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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

What makes this dish extra special is how quickly it comes together. With minimal prep and just one pot, you can have a soul-warming meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just need a spicy, creamy carb fix, this pasta has your back.


Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

  • One pan magic: Less mess and fewer dishes.
  • Fast and flavorful: Done in 30 minutes, packed with spice and richness.
  • Customizable heat: Add more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your spice level.
  • Creamy comfort: That luscious sauce hugs every bite.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best for Cajun Pasta?

For this dish, smoked sausage like Andouille or kielbasa is ideal. Andouille brings bold Cajun flavor and spice, while kielbasa offers a milder profile. You can even try chorizo for extra heat. Look for sausages that hold their shape when sliced and sautéed—you want that crispy sear on the outside to contrast the creamy pasta.


Ingredients for the One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish adds a layer of texture or flavor that builds the magic of this one-pot wonder:

  • Smoked sausage: Sliced into coins and sautéed for deep, savory flavor.
  • Penne pasta: Sturdy and holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Heavy cream: The backbone of the luscious, silky sauce.
  • Chicken broth: Adds depth and helps cook the pasta in one pot.
  • Cajun seasoning: Brings smoky heat and a zesty edge.
  • Minced garlic: Adds aromatic bite and richness.
  • Onion: Slight sweetness that balances the spice.
  • Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty umami boost.
  • Olive oil: For sautéing sausage and onions to golden perfection.
  • Parsley (optional): Fresh garnish to brighten the final dish.

How To Make the One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 3: Build the Base

Return sausage to the pot. Add uncooked penne, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer, and cover.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften

Cook covered for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Lower the heat. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot!


How to Serve and Store This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This recipe makes 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family meal or satisfying leftovers.

Serving Tips:
Serve hot straight from the pot for a comforting, steamy dinner. Top with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if you want to cut the richness.

Storage Tips:
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.


What to Serve With One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Soak up that extra creamy sauce with a warm, buttery slice.

Simple Side Salad

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds color and crunch to your plate.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Its sweetness pairs beautifully with the smoky heat.

Sauteed Green Beans

Light and fresh, they cut through the creamy sauce.

Creamy Coleslaw

The cool tang adds contrast to the warm spice.

Fried Okra

Southern flair with a satisfying crunch.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

An earthy side that complements the Cajun flavors.


Want More Pasta Ideas That Wow?

If you love this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, you’ll enjoy these other saucy, soul-satisfying dishes:


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go spicy or mild? Add mushrooms or swap in shrimp?

I love seeing how you customize these meals to fit your table. Questions welcome too — let’s make dinner delicious together!

Explore more flavorful, cozy dinner ideas on Nora Nosh Recipes and make your weeknights tastier than ever.


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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Turn up the heat on your weeknight dinner with this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta! A spicy, smoky sausage pasta dish simmered in a bold Cajun cream sauce and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect cozy choice for an easy recipe night or a comforting meal when you’re craving flavorful food ideas. This quick dinner delivers creamy, cheesy, and crave-worthy bites—all with minimal cleanup. Great for families, busy schedules, or anyone needing reliable dinner ideas with bold taste and simple steps.


Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into coins

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups penne pasta

2 cups chicken broth

1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Return the sausage to the pan. Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cover.

4. Let it cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until creamy and thick, about 3–5 minutes.

6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For extra spice, increase Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne.

Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter option.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 1120mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: one pot pasta, cajun sausage pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner

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