Description
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that’s quick to make and even easier to clean up. Smoky sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant veggies are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with bold Cajun spices for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet simple, this recipe brings the heat and the heartiness in one pot. With its creamy texture, spicy kick, and savory goodness, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Serve it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence. Cleanup is a breeze—just one pot and dinner is served!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz penne, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- Optional: 1 cup spinach or kale (for added greens)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sliced bell pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Liquids and Pasta:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover.
3. Simmer Until Pasta is Tender:
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
4. Add Cream and Sausage:
- Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked sausage to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the creamy Cajun pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the bold, spicy flavors of this one-pot wonder!
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
