Indulging in a bowl of rich, creamy pasta on a busy weeknight is an unbeatable comfort. One-Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy those cravings, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With all ingredients cooked together in one pot, the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.
This recipe is great for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful meal to serve to family or friends. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or comforting meals during chilly nights. You can easily make it ahead and store leftovers for a couple of days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sliced sausage adds a hearty texture to every bite.
- One pot means minimal cleanup and hassle.
- The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly.
- Cajun seasoning brings a flavorful kick to the dish.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create this delicious one-pot pasta dish.
For the Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce and Pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz penne pasta, uncooked
For Garnishing
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Use any smoked sausage of your choice.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Replace penne pasta with any short pasta.
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Choose vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
How to Make It
Start cooking this delicious pasta casserole in just a few easy steps.
Heat the oil
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the sausage and vegetables
Add sliced sausage, onion, and bell pepper; sauté until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
Cook the garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine the ingredients
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
Add the pasta
Stir in uncooked penne pasta; lower heat and simmer until the pasta is tender (10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Finish with cheese
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, pasta may become mushy when thawed.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Brown the sausage well for deeper flavor.
- Stir regularly to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to balance spice according to your taste.
- Add extra cheese on top for a creamier finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a simple green salad for freshness.
- Great for feeding a crowd on game nights.
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