Print

One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Close-up of a creamy cajun sausage pasta dish featuring penne pasta, sliced and browned sausage, and parsley garnish.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this rich, creamy Cajun sausage pasta in a single pot for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound smoked Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more for extra spice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their liquid). Stir in the Cajun seasoning, oregano, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Add the dry pasta to the pot. Stir well to submerge the pasta in the liquid.
  6. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer according to the pasta package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente (usually 10-12 minutes).
  7. Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage. Heat through for 2 minutes. Do not boil after adding the cream.
  8. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the dry spices.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the pasta to simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
  • This recipe is a great alternative to complex meal planning; it offers restaurant-quality flavor quickly.

Nutrition