One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Imagine the rich aroma of spicy Cajun sausage sizzling in a pan, mingling with garlic and tomatoes to create a mouthwatering symphony of flavors. One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings Louisiana flair straight to your dinner table. This hearty, indulgent dish combines the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with the creamy comfort of pasta, all made effortlessly in a single pot. You’ll learn how to create a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite for so many reasons. First, it’s genuinely a one-pot wonder – meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. The combination of spicy andouille sausage and creamy sauce creates an irresistible texture contrast that keeps every bite interesting.

What makes this dish truly special is how the pasta cooks directly in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all those incredible Cajun spices and sausage flavors. The heavy cream mellows the heat while the cheese adds a stretchy, gooey element that makes each forkful absolutely craveable.

Even better, this Cajun pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something that tastes like it took hours. The balance of spicy, creamy, and savory elements creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

Ingredients List for the One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This flavor-packed Cajun sausage pasta brings together authentic Louisiana-inspired ingredients with pantry staples to create a rich, creamy dish with the perfect amount of heat. The andouille sausage provides a smoky foundation while the Cajun seasoning adds that signature spice.

• 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)

Pro Tips

Mastering this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is easy, but these pro tips will elevate it from good to extraordinary:

Don’t rush the sausage browning: Take your time when browning the andouille sausage. Those caramelized edges add incredible depth of flavor to the entire dish. The rendered fat from the sausage also creates a flavorful base for sautéing the garlic, so resist the urge to drain it away.

Watch your pasta texture: When simmering the pasta, check it occasionally by testing a piece. Different pasta shapes and brands may require slightly different cooking times. You want it perfectly al dente – tender but still with a slight bite. Remember that the pasta will continue cooking slightly after you add the cheese due to residual heat.

Control the spice level: The beauty of Cajun pasta with sausage is being able to customize the heat level. If you love spice, use a spicier andouille sausage and add extra Cajun seasoning. For a milder version, opt for a less spicy sausage and use less seasoning. You can always add more heat at the end, but you can’t take it away!

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet (big enough to eventually fit the pasta that also has a lid), cook the sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until browned to your liking.

Step 2: Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Don’t get rid of the sausage grease in the pan!

Step 3: In the same skillet, sauté the garlic in the leftover sausage grease for about a minute and then pour in the can of chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and about 1 tsp of cajun seasoning. Stir in the dry pasta, cover with a lid, and simmer on LOW for about 14 minutes.

Step 4: Once the pasta is fully cooked, toss in the cooked sausage and a few cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy!

Variations

This versatile One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta recipe can be easily modified to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

Protein Swap: While andouille sausage provides authentic Cajun flavor, you can substitute chicken, shrimp, or even plant-based sausage. For a seafood twist, try adding a half-pound of shrimp during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking for a delicious Cajun pasta with shrimp and sausage combo.

Veggie Boost: Transform this into a more nutritious meal by adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or baby spinach. Sauté peppers and mushrooms with the garlic, or stir spinach in during the last minute of cooking until just wilted.

Gluten-Free Option: This creamy sausage pasta works beautifully with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to package directions, as gluten-free varieties often cook more quickly than traditional pasta.

Storage and Serving

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess, as the pasta tends to absorb liquid during storage.

For serving, present this spicy sausage pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for freshness and a pop of color. For a complete meal, pair with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette – the acidity provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich, creamy pasta.

For an extra-special touch, serve with garlic bread or crusty French bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. A chilled glass of crisp white wine or a cold beer complements the Cajun spices perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) pasta works beautifully in this recipe, any medium-sized pasta shape will work. Penne, rotini, or shells are excellent alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the pasta you choose.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?
To reduce the heat, use a milder sausage like smoked kielbasa instead of andouille, reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning, and substitute regular diced tomatoes for the Rotel tomatoes with chilies. You can always add a bit of paprika for color and mild flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. If preparing ahead, slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb liquid. When reheating, add additional cream or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter version, half-and-half or evaporated milk can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk provides similar creaminess.

Can I freeze this Cajun pasta dish?
While possible, cream-based pasta dishes generally don’t freeze well, as the sauce can separate upon thawing and the pasta may become mushy. If you must freeze it, reheat gently with additional liquid to help reconstitute the sauce.

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