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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 9 reviews

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal that combines smoky sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce all cooked in one pot. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Meats

  • 10 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into thin rounds

Pasta

  • 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Liquids & Dairy

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (add more if needed)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Chop the bell peppers and onions. Measure out the Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to have them ready.
  2. Cook the Sausage and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and sauté until nicely browned. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same pot, add the diced bell peppers and onions and cook until softened.
  3. Create the Base: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the sautéed veggies and stir to coat. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta directly into the simmering liquid in the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is al dente, absorbing the flavorful broth.
  5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Return the browned sausage to the pot and mix well to combine all ingredients.
  6. Final Seasoning: Taste the dish before adding any additional salt. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed, and add black pepper or extra cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Optionally stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Serve hot garnished with chopped parsley, extra grated Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Notes

  • Use Andouille or kielbasa sausage for authentic smoky flavor.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired spice level or omit for mild heat.
  • Adding fresh spinach at the end adds color and nutrients.
  • If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before cooking fully, add a splash more chicken broth or water.
  • This recipe works well with penne or rigatoni, but any short pasta shape can be used.