One of my all-time favorite comfort meals has to be One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta. There’s something incredibly indulgent about the creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and spicy Cajun sausage all mingling together in one dish. It becomes a symphony of flavors that never fails to delight. Plus, it all comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to dinner option for busy weeknights.
What truly makes this dish stand out is its unique blend of textures and flavors. The richness of the heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese contrasts beautifully with the bold, spicy notes of the Cajun seasonings and the savory depth of the sausage. It’s comforting but also has a kick that wakes up your taste buds. Perfect for those who want to spice up their dinner routine, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners or a cozy gathering with friends.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to prepare in one pot.
- Packed with rich, creamy flavor.
- Minimal cleanup, fewer dishes to wash.
- Flexible recipe for adding veggies or making it vegetarian.
- Ideal for meal prepping or freezing.
“Tastes incredible and so simple to make.”
Step-by-step overview
The process for making One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is straightforward and efficient. Start by browning the sausage in a skillet, then simmer it with garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Add dry pasta, cover, and let it cook. Finally, mix in the creamy ingredients and cheese for a comforting dish.
What you’ll need
- 1 (13oz) pack cajun andouille sausage (cut into coins)
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 (14.5oz) can chicken broth (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 (10oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta (½ pound or approximately 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning (*see notes)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Sausage: You can use other types of sausage, like Italian or turkey, based on your preference.
- Pasta Shape: While bowtie pasta works great, other shapes such as penne or fusilli can be used.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to taste; add more for extra heat.
- Cream Alternative: For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
How to make it
This dish is not just delicious but also unbelievably easy to prepare. Here’s how to bring this Cajun pasta to life:
- In a large skillet, cook the cajun sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned to your liking. Remove it from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep the grease in the pan for flavor.
- Using the sausage grease, sauté the chopped garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, Rotel diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and about 1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Add the dry bowtie pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low for approximately 14 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Once the pasta is fully cooked, return the sausage to the pan and stir in a few cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and everything is creamy and well combined. Enjoy!
Helpful cooking tips
- For the best browning, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet with sausage.
- Stir occasionally while the pasta is simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- If the pasta seems too dry during cooking, add a bit more chicken broth or water for additional moisture.
- Finish with a sprinkle of more Cajun seasoning or some freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Serving suggestions
This creamy Cajun pasta can shine on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full meal. You might also consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or cornbread to complement the bold flavors. For garnishing, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a nice touch.
Storage & reheating tips
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish can usually keep well for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, make sure to let it cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, make sure to bring it back to a bubbling hot temperature to ensure food safety.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If you find your pasta comes out too dry, it may need a little more liquid. Add more chicken broth or water and gently heat while stirring. For a bland flavor, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a splash of hot sauce. Overcooked pasta can still be salvaged; try stirring in some extra cream or cheese to enhance the texture.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Swap in kale or spinach for a nutrient boost, or toss in bell peppers for added sweetness. You could also use shrimp instead of sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian dish, substitute the sausage with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
Common questions
Can I use another type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even shrimp can be a great alternative to cajun sausage. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially with shrimp, which cooks quicker.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even peas can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just add them in the same step as the garlic to ensure they cook nicely.
What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
A microwave is quick, but reheating on the stove with a little splash of broth or cream added works best for maintaining the creamy texture.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference by tweaking the amount of Cajun seasoning used. If you prefer less heat, consider reducing the seasoning initially and tasting as you go.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components—like cooking the sausage and chopping the garlic—beforehand. When ready to eat, just follow through with the cooking instructions.
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the cajun sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned to your liking. Remove it from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Using the sausage grease, sauté the chopped garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, Rotel diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Add the dry bowtie pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low for approximately 14 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Once the pasta is fully cooked, return the sausage to the pan and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and everything is creamy and well combined. Enjoy!