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One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Close-up of creamy cajun sausage pasta featuring penne noodles and sliced, browned sausage.

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Make this easy, creamy Cajun sausage pasta in a single pot for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. This recipe uses bold Cajun spices and smoky sausage for a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 12 ounces dry pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (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 lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the same pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the dry pasta to the boiling liquid. Stir well to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer according to the pasta package directions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 to 12 minutes.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage. Heat through for 2 minutes, but do not let it boil once the cream is added.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute chicken or turkey sausage for Andouille if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • This is a great one pan pasta dish for busy nights.
  • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

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