One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Dinner Favorite

If you’re looking for a comforting, spicy, and creamy pasta recipe that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors, this One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the perfect go-to meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or meal prepping for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes: it’s quick, delicious, and made in just one pot—less mess, more flavor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the recipe, from ingredients and substitutions to pro tips and FAQs.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Pasta

• Quick and easy: Ready in 30–35 minutes with minimal prep

• One-pot convenience: Fewer dishes, more flavor

• Flavor explosion: Cajun seasoning brings the spice, cream smooths it out

• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make this creamy Cajun pasta—all in one pot:

Main ingredients:

• 12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 ½ cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 10 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)

• 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta in One Pot

Step 1: Sauté the sausage and veggies
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned (about 4–5 minutes). Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft. Stir in garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Add liquids and pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer and cook
Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Stir in cheese and finish
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Control the spice: Start with 1 tsp of Cajun seasoning and add more to taste

• For extra creaminess: Stick with heavy cream; substitutes may thin the sauce

• Add-ins: Try mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes

• Cheese twist: Swap in smoked gouda or mozzarella

• Gluten-free: Use GF pasta and verify your sausage is gluten-free

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 21g

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Fat: 30g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 850mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on brand and substitutions.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of sausage is best for Cajun pasta?
   Andouille is traditional, but kielbasa, Italian, or plant-based sausages work well too.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes, use unsweetened coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and vegan cheese.

3. How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
   It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Adjust based on your tolerance or make a homemade version.

4. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch for thickness.

5. Can this dish be made ahead?
   Definitely! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

6. What pasta works best?
   Penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce well. Avoid delicate options like angel hair.

7. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
   Yes! Just reduce the Cajun seasoning for a milder flavor.

8. Can I add chicken or shrimp?
   Absolutely. Sauté them with the sausage for a heartier dish.

9. What sides go with Cajun pasta?
   Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies are all great pairings.

10. Can I freeze it?
    You can, but creamy sauces may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is your new weeknight dinner hero. It’s bold, creamy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying—plus, it’s a breeze to make and clean up. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later, this pasta is a guaranteed hit.

Don’t forget to share this recipe, save it for later, and tag your delicious creations online. You’ll want this one in your regular rotation!