One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: Chicken or turkey sausage (13 oz, sliced); Chopped garlic (1 tbsp); Chicken broth (14.5 oz can); Heavy cream (½ cup); Diced tomatoes with chilies (10 oz can); Dry bowtie pasta (8 oz); Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups); Cajun seasoning (1 tsp)

Published: October 14, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This meal can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of cajun seasoning and creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste.
Versatile Dish: Customize with your choice of proteins or vegetables to suit everyone’s preferences.
Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less time spent washing dishes after the meal.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting pasta dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will help streamline the cooking process and ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet with lid: Perfect for sautéing and simmering, allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Sausage

Cajun andouille sausage (1 pack, 13oz, cut into coins)

For the Sauce

Chopped garlic (1 tbsp)
Chicken broth (1 can, 14.5oz, about 2 cups)
Heavy cream (½ cup)
Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies (1 can, 10oz)

For the Pasta

Dry bowtie pasta (8 ounces, approximately 2 cups)

For Topping

Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups)
Cajun seasoning (1 tsp)

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage coins for about 5 minutes or until they are browned to your liking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Remove the cooked sausage from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Do not discard any leftover grease in the skillet as it adds flavor!

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped garlic in the leftover sausage grease for about a minute. Then add in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and cajun seasoning. Stir well.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add dry bowtie pasta into the skillet mixture. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on LOW heat for about 14 minutes until the pasta is fully cooked.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once cooked, stir in the reserved sausage along with shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy cajun pasta!

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Serving One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and making it a memorable meal for your family. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and freshness.
Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with a Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, offering a crunchy texture alongside creamy pasta.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Add Extra Protein

Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can be added on top for an extra protein boost.
Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp tossed in Cajun seasoning can enhance the dish’s seafood flair.

Serve with Bread

Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can soak up any leftover sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Perfecting your One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta will ensure it’s always a hit at dinner time. Follow these simple tips for the best results.

Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality cajun sausage for the best flavor and texture in your pasta.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure you follow cooking times closely, as overcooked pasta can become mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more cajun seasoning or salt according to your preference.
Add Vegetables: Consider mixing in bell peppers or spinach during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs to elevate the overall taste of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Complement your One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta with these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal’s overall experience.

Garlic Bread: This buttery, toasted bread is perfect for savoring every bit of sauce left on your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy pasta.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that pairs well with spicy flavors.
Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing taste that balances richness.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies make for a hearty side that complements pasta perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, even small errors can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the sausage browning: Not browning the sausage can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to brown it well for a richer taste.
Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken broth can make your dish bland. Opt for a good brand or homemade broth for better flavor.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and check for al dente doneness.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning may result in a flat dish. Always taste before serving and add more seasoning if needed.
Forgetting to reserve some cheese: Using all the cheese at once can make it overly cheesy and greasy. Save some shredded cheese for garnishing before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating over medium heat, stirring continuously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute cajun sausage with chicken, turkey, or beef sausage for different flavors.

How do I customize my One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

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

The entire dish takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal quick dinner option.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or changing the type of sausage used. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!

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