One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s brimming with bold, smoky flavors and velvety cream. One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is one of those dishes I turn to when I want something deeply satisfying but without the pile of dishes. It’s fast, hearty, and unapologetically rich—a total weeknight winner.

The smoky heat of Cajun spices mingles beautifully with the creamy sauce, coating every penne noodle and juicy slice of sausage in bold flavor. I love how everything comes together in one pan—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Whether it’s a cozy night in or you’re feeding a hungry crowd, this dish hits the spot every single time.

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

This pasta has everything going for it: flavor-packed sausage, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce infused with just the right amount of Cajun kick. It’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is quick and easy. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—spice it up or tone it down, switch the protein, or throw in some extra veggies. It’s the kind of comfort food that delivers big taste with little effort.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

I like to use smoked andouille sausage for this recipe because it brings that deep, savory flavor and slight heat that works so well with the Cajun spices. But any fully cooked, flavorful sausage will work—chicken sausage, kielbasa, or even spicy Italian sausage. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked so you can simply brown it and move on.

Options for Substitutions

• Sausage: Swap andouille for turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian take.
• Pasta: Penne holds the sauce well, but rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli will also work.
• Cream: Half-and-half or coconut milk can be used if you want a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Cheese: Parmesan adds sharpness, but feel free to try sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a different vibe.
• Veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition and texture.

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Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Andouille Sausage: Brings smoky, spicy flavor and protein to the dish.
• Penne Pasta: Ideal shape to hold the creamy Cajun sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the rich, luscious base of the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and thins the cream for perfect sauce consistency.
• Cajun Seasoning: The star of the show—spicy, smoky, and full of flavor.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with a sharp, aromatic base.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and a savory layer to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the sausage and vegetables.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and a creamy finish when melted into the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: Enhances and balances the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned on both sides. This step builds flavor right from the beginning.

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Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Remove the sausage and set it aside. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.

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Step 3: Add Cajun Seasoning and Pasta

Stir in your Cajun seasoning and mix well with the onions and garlic. Add the dry penne pasta and stir to coat with the seasoning mixture, letting the pasta toast slightly for extra flavor.

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Step 4: Pour in Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine everything, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

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Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Cooked

Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. If needed, add a splash more broth or cream.

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Step 6: Return Sausage and Add Cheese

Add the browned sausage back into the pan and stir to coat it in the sauce. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined.

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Step 7: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

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How Long to Prepare One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Prep Time: Most of the prep involves slicing sausage and chopping a few aromatics. You can expect about 10 minutes of hands-on work before everything hits the pan. If you’re using pre-sliced sausage or pre-minced garlic, this step is even faster.

Cook Time: Once the sausage is browned and everything is in the pot, it takes around 15 minutes for the pasta to cook and the sauce to thicken. From pan to plate, this meal is ready in about 25–30 minutes total, making it a perfect quick dinner solution.

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Tips for Perfect One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Don’t skip browning the sausage—it builds depth of flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts better and adds more flavor.
• Stir the pasta every few minutes as it cooks to prevent sticking.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to taste—some blends are saltier or spicier than others.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Keep a close eye during the simmering stage so it stays al dente.
• Using raw sausage: This recipe calls for pre-cooked sausage. Raw sausage would need extra cooking time.
• Too much Cajun seasoning: It can be overpowering, so start with less and taste before adding more.
• Skipping the stir: Stirring ensures even cooking and prevents pasta from clumping.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often has anti-caking agents that can cause a grainy sauce.

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What to Serve With One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread makes the perfect companion to mop up the creamy sauce.

2. Side Salad with Vinaigrette

A light, crisp salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Adds a healthy and hearty side that complements the Cajun flavors beautifully.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet and smoky, corn brings a summery touch that pairs well with the sausage.

5. Sautéed Spinach

A simple sauté of spinach with garlic and olive oil adds green and freshness.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of cream or broth while reheating helps loosen it.

Freezing: This pasta freezes well, but the texture of the sauce may slightly change upon thawing. To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little liquid to bring back the creaminess. Microwave is also fine for quick reheats—just cover and stir halfway through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (approximate, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 920mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on your Cajun seasoning and sausage choice. You can tone it down by using a mild sausage or reducing the seasoning.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even full-fat coconut milk.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach all go great in this dish. Add them in Step 2 with the onions.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is great, but any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will also work well.

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Conclusion

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, fuss-free dinner that brings bold Southern-inspired comfort to your table in under 30 minutes. It’s creamy, spicy, and rich with smoky sausage—perfect for weeknights, casual dinners, or when you’re craving something indulgent without a mountain of dishes. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or throw in your own twist, this pasta never disappoints.

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