One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta brings the soulful flavors of Louisiana straight to your dinner table. This comforting dish combines smoky sausage, tender penne pasta, and a luscious, creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, all made conveniently in a single pot.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy get-togethers, this hearty meal delivers spicy, creamy richness with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal family favorite with versatile options for customization.
- Combines bold Cajun spices with creamy textures for rich flavor.
- Made entirely in one pot, speeding up prep and cleanup.
- Customizable ingredients to match your preferred spice level and taste.
- Hearty and filling enough for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- Smoked Sausage (1 lb): Adds smoky, savory depth and protein, key to authentic Cajun flavor.
- Penne Pasta (12 oz): Durable pasta shape that holds sauce well and cooks evenly in the pot.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups): Provides flavorful liquid base and moisture for cooking pasta perfectly.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a rich, smooth, and indulgent sauce coating the pasta and sausage.
- Onion (1 medium): Adds natural sweetness and aromatic base when sautéed with sausage.
- Bell Pepper (1 medium): Offers subtle sweetness and crisp texture contrast to creamy sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Infuses bold, fragrant flavor that enhances the dish’s complexity.
- Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can): Adds a slight acidity and freshness balancing the richness.
- Cajun Seasoning (1 tbsp): Essential seasoning blend delivering smoky heat and Louisiana spice.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds mild earthy flavor and vibrant color to the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhances and balances all flavors in the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce adding umami richness and creamy texture.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used to sauté ingredients and build the sauce base with a silky finish.
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Sausage and Vegetables
Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper, cooking until browned and softened (5-7 minutes). This step develops deep flavors and caramelization essential for a robust sauce.
- Add Garlic and Build Sauce Base
Stir in minced garlic and sauté for one more minute until fragrant. Garlic releases its aroma quickly, so it’s added last to maximize flavor without burning.
- Incorporate Liquids and Spices
Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a rolling boil to blend flavors and prepare the liquid for pasta cooking.
- Cook Pasta in Sauce
Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the pot. Lower heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method lets pasta absorb the rich, spicy sauce while cooking evenly.
- Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Remove pot from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. This final step enriches the sauce with creamy umami, enhancing flavor and texture just before serving.
- Use smoked sausage for authentic smoky flavor; spicy sausage can add extra heat if desired.
- Stir pasta frequently during cooking to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spicy level based on personal preference.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore sauce creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bold pasta alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal. Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley for an elevated presentation.
- Choose high-quality smoked sausage for best flavor impact.
- For a lighter option, substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk.
- Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions add both texture and natural sweetness.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the rich flavors.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, other short pasta like rigatoni or rotini can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a moderate spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning, which can be adjusted to taste.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage and seasoning are gluten-free labeled.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
- Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and variety.
Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 stove
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage sliced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced sausage, onion, and bell pepper; sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Add uncooked penne pasta, reduce heat, and simmer until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked sausage for quicker preparation.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning for preferred spice level.
- Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days.
