One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Delight

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Looking for a quick, tasty meal? My One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Delight is your solution! In just one pot, you can create a flavorful dish that pairs smoky sausage with creamy goodness. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can impress your family or friends. Ready to dive into the spicy, savory world of Cajun cuisine? Let’s cook!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy One-Pot Meal: This recipe simplifies cooking by combining all ingredients in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
  2. Flavorful Cajun Twist: The Cajun seasoning adds a delicious kick, making this dish a standout for spice lovers.
  3. Rich and Creamy Sauce: The addition of heavy cream and cheddar creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
  4. Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb smoked sausage (like Andouille)

– 1 medium onion

– 3 cloves garlic

– 1 red bell pepper

– 1 green bell pepper

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Chopped parsley for garnish

When I create this dish, I focus on fresh flavors and quality ingredients. Each item plays a key role in making this creamy Cajun sausage pasta a hit. The penne pasta holds the sauce well, giving you bites of creamy goodness. Smoked sausage adds a rich, savory taste that is hard to resist.

Onions and garlic bring depth to the dish. The bell peppers add color and crunch. Chicken broth provides the base for a tasty sauce. Heavy cream makes it rich and smooth, while Cajun seasoning gives it that signature kick. Smoked paprika deepens the flavor, making it even more special.

Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess. Finally, olive oil helps everything cook evenly. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance all these flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh look and taste.

Optional Ingredients

– Additional vegetables (like spinach or zucchini)

– Different types of cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella)

– Hot sauce for added spice

If you want to mix it up, try adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini. This can make the dish even healthier. You can also switch up the cheese. Parmesan or mozzarella would work well. If you love spice, a dash of hot sauce can take it to the next level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Heat olive oil in a pot.

– Cook smoked sausage until browned.

To start, grab a large pot. Turn your stove to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. Then, toss in the sliced smoked sausage. Cook it for about five minutes. You want it to get nice and brown. This adds flavor to your dish.

Cooking Steps

– Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers.

– Add spices and chicken broth.

Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and the red and green bell peppers. Stir them well for about three to four minutes. You want the veggies to soften a bit. After that, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Mix everything together. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.

Pasta Cooking Steps

– Add penne pasta and cherry tomatoes to broth.

– Simmer and stir until pasta is al dente.

When the broth is boiling, add the penne pasta and halved cherry tomatoes. Give everything a good stir so it combines well. Cover the pot and lower the heat. Let it simmer for about ten to twelve minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard.

Final Steps

– Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese.

– Season to taste with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat again. Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste it and add salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if you like. Let it sit for a minute before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To get the best texture for pasta, cook it al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Start by boiling water in a big pot. Add salt to the water for flavor. Once the water boils, add the penne pasta. Stir it to prevent sticking. Cook it as per the package directions, usually around 10-12 minutes. Always taste a piece to check.

For heat settings, start on medium-high when cooking sausage. This helps it brown nicely. After adding veggies, lower the heat to medium. When adding broth, turn it up to bring it to a boil. Then, reduce it to medium-low when you add the pasta. This keeps the pasta from overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with garlic bread or a fresh salad. Garlic bread adds crunch and flavor. A salad brings freshness and balance. For serving, use wide bowls. This makes it look nice and gives space for the sauce. Top with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cheese. This adds color and makes it more appealing.

Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne pasta. It works just as well. You can also swap the smoked sausage for other proteins. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great choices. Just ensure you cook them well before adding to the dish. This keeps your meal tasty and fun!

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Sausage: Using Andouille or another smoked sausage adds depth to the flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types for a different twist.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta continues to cook in the sauce, aim for it to be al dente before adding the cream and cheese to avoid mushiness.
  3. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, or add a dollop of sour cream before serving for creaminess.
  4. Garnish for Freshness: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that balances the richness of the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall dish.

Variations

Vegetarian Version

To make a Cajun vegetable pasta, swap the smoked sausage for hearty vegetables. Here’s how:

– Use 1 cup of diced zucchini, 1 cup of mushrooms, and 1 cup of spinach.

– Sauté the vegetables with the onions and garlic for a rich flavor.

– Keep the Cajun seasoning to add that kick.

– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for depth.

This version offers a fresh taste while keeping the creamy texture.

Spicy Version

Want more heat? You can spice it up with more Cajun seasoning or hot peppers.

– Add an extra tablespoon of Cajun seasoning while cooking.

– Chop fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers and mix them in.

– Use a spicy sausage like chorizo for a flavor boost.

Feel free to adjust the spice level to match your taste.

Creamy Alternatives

If you want lighter options for the cream, here are two ideas:

– Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

– For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or cashew cream.

These alternatives keep the dish creamy but reduce calories and dairy.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Heat it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy.

Shelf Life

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta stays good for about three days in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or mold. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. Always trust your senses!

FAQs

How long does it take to make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?

It takes about 30 minutes in total. You spend 10 minutes prepping, like chopping veggies and slicing sausage. Cooking takes about 20 minutes. This quick time makes it perfect for busy nights.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can! Andouille sausage adds great flavor, but you can try others too. Kielbasa, chorizo, or turkey sausage work well. Each type will give the dish a unique taste.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can vary. Cajun seasoning adds heat, but you control it. If you want less spice, use less seasoning. You can also add sour cream to cool it down. For more spice, add hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning.

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad. You might enjoy a glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc. Together, these sides create a fun and tasty meal experience.

This recipe for One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta combines great flavors and easy steps. You learned about the key ingredients like sausage, pasta, and cream. I shared tips for cooking and storing so your dish stays fresh. You can tweak flavors with optional ingredients or variations to suit your taste. This meal is perfect for busy nights or special occasions. Enjoy making it your own while bringing a taste of Cajun cuisine to your table. Cooking can be fun and rewardin

- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb smoked sausage (like Andouille) - 1 medium onion - 3 cloves garlic - 1 red bell pepper - 1 green bell pepper - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 cup cherry tomatoes - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Chopped parsley for garnish When I create this dish, I focus on fresh flavors and quality ingredients. Each item plays a key role in making this creamy Cajun sausage pasta a hit. The penne pasta holds the sauce well, giving you bites of creamy goodness. Smoked sausage adds a rich, savory taste that is hard to resist. Onions and garlic bring depth to the dish. The bell peppers add color and crunch. Chicken broth provides the base for a tasty sauce. Heavy cream makes it rich and smooth, while Cajun seasoning gives it that signature kick. Smoked paprika deepens the flavor, making it even more special. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess. Finally, olive oil helps everything cook evenly. Don't forget salt and pepper to enhance all these flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh look and taste. - Additional vegetables (like spinach or zucchini) - Different types of cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella) - Hot sauce for added spice If you want to mix it up, try adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini. This can make the dish even healthier. You can also switch up the cheese. Parmesan or mozzarella would work well. If you love spice, a dash of hot sauce can take it to the next level. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Heat olive oil in a pot. - Cook smoked sausage until browned. To start, grab a large pot. Turn your stove to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. Then, toss in the sliced smoked sausage. Cook it for about five minutes. You want it to get nice and brown. This adds flavor to your dish. - Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers. - Add spices and chicken broth. Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and the red and green bell peppers. Stir them well for about three to four minutes. You want the veggies to soften a bit. After that, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Mix everything together. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. - Add penne pasta and cherry tomatoes to broth. - Simmer and stir until pasta is al dente. When the broth is boiling, add the penne pasta and halved cherry tomatoes. Give everything a good stir so it combines well. Cover the pot and lower the heat. Let it simmer for about ten to twelve minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. - Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese. - Season to taste with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat again. Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste it and add salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if you like. Let it sit for a minute before serving. To get the best texture for pasta, cook it al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Start by boiling water in a big pot. Add salt to the water for flavor. Once the water boils, add the penne pasta. Stir it to prevent sticking. Cook it as per the package directions, usually around 10-12 minutes. Always taste a piece to check. For heat settings, start on medium-high when cooking sausage. This helps it brown nicely. After adding veggies, lower the heat to medium. When adding broth, turn it up to bring it to a boil. Then, reduce it to medium-low when you add the pasta. This keeps the pasta from overcooking. Pair this dish with garlic bread or a fresh salad. Garlic bread adds crunch and flavor. A salad brings freshness and balance. For serving, use wide bowls. This makes it look nice and gives space for the sauce. Top with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cheese. This adds color and makes it more appealing. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne pasta. It works just as well. You can also swap the smoked sausage for other proteins. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great choices. Just ensure you cook them well before adding to the dish. This keeps your meal tasty and fun! Pro Tips Choose the Right Sausage: Using Andouille or another smoked sausage adds depth to the flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types for a different twist. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta continues to cook in the sauce, aim for it to be al dente before adding the cream and cheese to avoid mushiness. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, or add a dollop of sour cream before serving for creaminess. Garnish for Freshness: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that balances the richness of the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall dish. {{image_2}} To make a Cajun vegetable pasta, swap the smoked sausage for hearty vegetables. Here’s how: - Use 1 cup of diced zucchini, 1 cup of mushrooms, and 1 cup of spinach. - Sauté the vegetables with the onions and garlic for a rich flavor. - Keep the Cajun seasoning to add that kick. - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for depth. This version offers a fresh taste while keeping the creamy texture. Want more heat? You can spice it up with more Cajun seasoning or hot peppers. - Add an extra tablespoon of Cajun seasoning while cooking. - Chop fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers and mix them in. - Use a spicy sausage like chorizo for a flavor boost. Feel free to adjust the spice level to match your taste. If you want lighter options for the cream, here are two ideas: - Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. - For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or cashew cream. These alternatives keep the dish creamy but reduce calories and dairy. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Heat it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta stays good for about three days in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or mold. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. Always trust your senses! It takes about 30 minutes in total. You spend 10 minutes prepping, like chopping veggies and slicing sausage. Cooking takes about 20 minutes. This quick time makes it perfect for busy nights. Yes, you can! Andouille sausage adds great flavor, but you can try others too. Kielbasa, chorizo, or turkey sausage work well. Each type will give the dish a unique taste. The spice level can vary. Cajun seasoning adds heat, but you control it. If you want less spice, use less seasoning. You can also add sour cream to cool it down. For more spice, add hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning. This pasta pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad. You might enjoy a glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc. Together, these sides create a fun and tasty meal experience. This recipe for One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta combines great flavors and easy steps. You learned about the key ingredients like sausage, pasta, and cream. I shared tips for cooking and storing so your dish stays fresh. You can tweak flavors with optional ingredients or variations to suit your taste. This meal is perfect for busy nights or special occasions. Enjoy making it your own while bringing a taste of Cajun cuisine to your table. Cooking can be fun and rewarding!

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with smoked sausage and Cajun flavors, all cooked in one pot.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb smoked sausage (like Andouille), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish chopped parsley

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
  • Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  • Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, mixing thoroughly to let the seasonings coat the sausage and vegetables.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  • Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the Cajun seasoning if needed.
  • Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute before serving.

Notes

Serve in wide bowls garnished with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese on top. Pair with garlic bread on the side for a complete meal!
Keyword Cajun, creamy, one pot, pasta, sausage

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