Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 10 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa); 4 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors); 1/2 cup diced onion; 1 cup fresh spinach (optional); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (add more if needed); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice); Chopped parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 7 reviews

If you’re after a weeknight meal that’s both effortlessly impressive and loaded with bold flavors, look no further than this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes). Imagine tender pasta, sizzling sausage, and colorful veggies all bathed in a luxuriously creamy, Cajun-spiced sauce that comes together in just half an hour—with only one pan to wash! This dish delivers a symphony of smoky, spicy, and savory notes, making it the kind of hearty comfort food you’ll want to put on repeat.

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes) brings something special, so don’t skimp or skip! From the robust sausage to the bright pop of bell peppers, every element plays its part in creating the perfect bite.

Smoked Sausage (10 ounces, Andouille or kielbasa): Brings an irresistible smoky, meaty depth that forms the foundation of the whole dish.
Pasta (4 ounces, penne or rigatoni): Short, sturdy noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully—choose your favorite shape!
Cajun Seasoning (2 tablespoons): The key player for that bold, zesty kick—customize the heat by choosing a mild or spicy blend.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a silky start for browning the sausage and sautéing those veggies just right.
Bell Peppers (1 cup, mixed colors): Sweet, crunchy, and visually vibrant—red, yellow, and green peppers brighten every bite.
Onion (1/2 cup, diced): Rounds out the savory flavor and helps create a flavorful base for your sauce.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (2 cups): Offers a flavorful liquid for simmering pasta and veggies, keeping things light and balanced.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Delivers the signature creamy lusciousness that wraps around every ingredient.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce for a cheesy, salty finish with a hint of nuttiness.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mellow, savory background note that ties everything together.
Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who crave an extra fiery touch—add to your taste!
Fresh Spinach (1 cup, optional): Wilts right in at the end, adding a burst of color and a healthy twist.
Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Lends a fresh, herbaceous finish right before serving.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by slicing the smoked sausage into thin rounds and dicing your bell peppers and onion. Having everything prepped and ready makes the whole cooking process a breeze, and you’ll move smoothly through each step without missing a beat.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage & Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the sausage slices and let them sizzle until browned and deliciously caramelized around the edges. Remove the sausage to a plate and, using those wonderfully flavorful drippings, toss in the peppers and onion. Sauté until soft and slightly golden—this is where your kitchen will start to smell like magic.

Step 3: Build the Cajun Base

Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning (and a dash of garlic powder) over the sautéed veggies, stirring well so every bite gets coated in that signature spicy warmth. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom to release all those tasty, browned bits, and bring to a gentle simmer. This step infuses the broth with tons of flavor from the start.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta right into your bubbling base. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, letting the noodles absorb maximum flavor as they soften—no need for a separate pot or draining. If the liquid gets low before the pasta is al dente, just splash in a bit more broth.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Once the pasta is tender, reduce your heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan. Watch as the sauce transforms into a rich, velvety blanket, melting beautifully around every noodle and veggie. Return the browned sausage (and toss in spinach if using), mixing thoroughly so everything gets fully coated and the spinach just wilts.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust with black pepper or a pinch of salt, only if needed (the sausage and cheese do quite a bit already). A little cayenne can light things up! Scoop into bowls, finish with fresh parsley, more cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and dig in immediately for peak creamy comfort.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes)

Garnishes

This dish begs for that final touch. A generous handful of chopped parsley brings brightness, while extra Parmesan lends a salty, cheesy pop. If you love heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a dusting of red pepper flakes really seals the deal. For a quick visual upgrade, add a few extra sautéed peppers or a lemon wedge on the side.

Side Dishes

While this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes) is hearty enough to shine solo, it loves the company of simple sides! Think crisp green salads with vinaigrette, warm garlic bread for sopping up extra sauce, or even roasted broccoli for an additional veggie boost. These sides keep the meal lively and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the pasta family-style in a big, shallow platter so everyone can admire those jewel-toned veggies and swirls of creamy sauce. For weeknight fun, try serving in wide pasta bowls with extra parsley and Parmesan on the table, inviting everyone to garnish their own. Leftovers even make a brilliant lunch for work—just pack in individual containers and enjoy a midday treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes) keeps well for up to three days. Simply transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate as soon as it has cooled—it’s just as satisfying the next day, with flavors that meld even more beautifully.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, you absolutely can, but keep in mind that creamy sauces sometimes change texture when thawed. Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen things up, stirring occasionally so the sauce stays creamy and smooth. Don’t crank the heat—gentle warming keeps the cream from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While penne and rigatoni are perfect for trapping the creamy sauce, you can swap in any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some shapes may cook faster or slower than others.

How spicy is the One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes)?

The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning and if you choose to add cayenne. It’s easy to make it mild by simply using less cayenne, or you can bring the fire with an extra pinch—totally customizable to your taste!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep in mind that some gluten-free noodles cook faster and may need a touch more broth to prevent sticking, but the recipe is wonderfully adaptable.

What proteins can I substitute for sausage?

If sausage isn’t your thing, this dish is delicious with chopped cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. Each protein adds its own character, so feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.

Can I skip the heavy cream?

If you’re looking to lighten things up, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a slightly less rich sauce. The end result will still be creamy and flavorful, just a tad lighter on the palate.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (30-Minutes) is the ultimate weeknight hero—comforting, bursting with personality, and refreshingly quick to make. I can’t wait for you to bring this mouthwatering recipe into your own kitchen, so grab your skillet and get ready for a dish that just might become your family’s newest favorite tradition!