Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta in One Pot

If you’re looking for a quick and easy weekday dinner, this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta in One Pot is a winner! I remember one evening when my son, Jake, was starving after soccer practice and I whipped this up in no time. He couldn’t get enough of the creamy sauce and spicy sausage, and I loved how simple it was to make.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze.
• The creamy sauce is packed with flavor and perfect for pasta lovers.
• You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

Pure Comfort

This dish is pure comfort food. The creamy texture combined with the spicy Cajun sausage creates a delightful harmony that warms your soul. Plus, it’s a great way to bring restaurant dinner at home without the fuss.

What You Need

• 1 8 oz penne pasta – You can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand.
• 1 1 lb Cajun sausage – Feel free to use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• 1 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds a sweet flavor to balance the spices.
• 2 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the aroma and flavor.
• 1 1 bell pepper, diced – Any color works; it adds crunch and sweetness.
• 16 2 cups chicken broth – You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• 8 1 cup heavy cream – For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half.
• 1 1 tsp Cajun seasoning – Adjust to taste if you like it spicier.
• to taste Salt and pepper – Season to your preference.
• for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh touch to the dish.

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prep the ingredients a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the Cajun sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. The sausage should sizzle and release a savory aroma.
2. Next, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This will add sweetness to your dish.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the garlic’s delightful fragrance.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This should take about 2 minutes. The broth will bubble and start to combine all those wonderful flavors.
5. Add the penne pasta to the pot and stir well. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The creamy texture should coat the pasta beautifully.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for another minute. This is where the magic happens!
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. The vibrant green will add a lovely pop of color to your dish.

Make It Perfect

• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce when serving.
• If you want to sneak in more veggies, throw in some spinach or mushrooms during the sautéing step.
• Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to keep it from sticking together.

Mix It Up

• Swap out the Cajun sausage for Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
• For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.

Perfect Partners

• A crisp green salad pairs nicely with this pasta.
• Garlic bread is always a hit and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.

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FAQs

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta in One Pot is a fantastic choice for easy dinner ideas. It’s flavorful, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and I bet it will become a family favorite!