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One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta combines smoky sausage with zesty Cajun spices and a rich, creamy sauce, all cooked together with penne pasta for a flavorful and comforting meal made in just 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Sausage and Vegetables

  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Dairy

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings

  • 12 oz penne pasta, uncooked
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Sauté Sausage and Vegetables: Add sliced smoked sausage, diced onion, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma without burning.
  4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the boiling mixture. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 10 to 12 minutes.
  6. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
  7. Serve: Spoon the creamy Cajun sausage pasta into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning.
  • Use smoked sausage varieties like andouille or kielbasa for authentic Cajun flavor.
  • Keep stirring occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • To make it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.