One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta | Easy 30-Min Dinner

It’s the kind of weeknight meal that makes everyone linger around the stove. The smell of smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and Cajun spice fills the kitchen, and before you know it, dinner’s ready in one pot. This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta brings the comfort of the South to your table in just 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

This recipe delivers everything you want in a weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, spicy, and deeply flavorful, yet easy enough for beginners. Since it all cooks in one skillet, cleanup stays simple. You can also adjust the heat by adding or reducing Cajun seasoning or swap the sausage for shrimp or chicken. Ready in under 30 minutes, this meal feels indulgent but fits even the busiest evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Key Ingredients

• Smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa, 10 oz): Adds smoky, savory depth that defines Cajun comfort food.
• Pasta (4 oz penne or rigatoni): Holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Cajun seasoning (2 tbsp): The heart of the dish, bringing warmth and spice.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): For searing sausage and sautéing veggies.
• Bell peppers (1 cup, mixed colors): Add sweetness and color.
• Onion (½ cup, diced): Builds a savory flavor base.
• Chicken broth (2 cups): Helps cook the pasta right in the sauce.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that luscious, creamy texture.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds saltiness and body to the sauce.
• Garlic powder (½ tsp): Enhances the Cajun spice blend.
• Cayenne pepper (¼ tsp, optional): For extra heat.
• Spinach (1 cup, optional): Adds freshness and color.
• Parsley (for garnish): Finishes the dish with brightness.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

Add shrimp or plant-based sausage for a twist. Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or whole-grain pasta for extra fiber. To adjust the spice, simply increase or reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta

Step 1 – Prep and Sear

Slice the sausage into thin rounds and chop your vegetables. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and sear until browned on both sides, then set it aside.

Step 2 – Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and garlic powder, coating the veggies well. If you’d like a thicker sauce, sprinkle in a bit of flour.

Step 3 – Cook the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add pasta directly into the skillet, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the pasta absorbs the broth and seasoning, locking in flavor.

Step 4 – Make It Creamy

Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and velvety. Add a splash more broth if it thickens too quickly.

Step 5 – Combine and Serve

Return the sausage to the pan and toss everything together until hot and evenly coated. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color.
This recipe serves 4 and provides about 550 kcal per serving, offering a satisfying mix of protein, carbs, and creaminess.

Expert Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage Pasta

• Adjust the heat level with extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne.
• If your sauce thickens too much, add a bit of broth to loosen it.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, melty finish.
• When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to bring back the silky texture.

Serving Ideas

This pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For drinks, serve with sweet tea, white wine, or a light beer. While best enjoyed fresh, it also makes a great make-ahead meal for the next day.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a little broth or cream. You can freeze it, but note that the sauce may thicken slightly after thawing. Perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Such Recipes

• creamy ranch chicken for busy weeknights
• oven baked chicken thighs with crispy skin
• crock pot bourbon chicken made easy
• parmesan crusted chicken skillet recipe
• chicken and vegetables skillet dinner
• cheesy mozzarella chicken bake recipe
• cowboy butter chicken linguine

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta proves that big flavor doesn’t need big effort. It’s smoky, creamy, and ready in half an hour a perfect Southern-inspired comfort dish for your weeknight lineup. Try it next time you want something hearty, easy, and irresistibly satisfying. Share your creation on Pinterest or tag me on Facebook I’d love to see your version!

Print