Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

• 1 lb (450g) Andouille sausage, sliced: This smoky, spicy Andouille sausage is the undisputed star of our Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, providing the foundational protein and that unmistakable zesty, robust flavor profile. Its rich, peppery notes are absolutely essential to achieving an authentic Cajun taste in this one-pot wonder. For the best results, seek out a high-quality, pre-cooked Andouille sausage from your local butcher or a trusted brand, as its flavor will truly shine through the creamy sauce.
• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or similar short pasta): Penne pasta is the ideal choice for this effortless one-pot dish, with its tubular shape and ridged surface perfectly designed to capture and hold every drop of the rich, spicy Cajun sauce. Its sturdy structure stands up well to the cooking process, ensuring a tender yet satisfying bite. Always aim to cook it al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid and tenderize slightly even after being removed from the heat, contributing beautifully to the overall texture of the creamy pasta.
• 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth: Serving as the liquid base for cooking our pasta, chicken broth is absolutely essential for infusing the entire dish with a deep, savory foundation. It’s crucial for hydrating the pasta and creating the initial volume of the sauce, ensuring everything cooks evenly in one pot. Opt for a good quality, low-sodium chicken broth, allowing you complete control over the final saltiness of your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, which is key to achieving perfectly balanced flavors without over-seasoning.
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream: This is where the “creamy” in Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta truly comes to life, transforming the sauce into a luxurious, velvety, and deeply satisfying indulgence. Heavy cream provides that rich, smooth texture that coats every piece of pasta and balances the spice from the Cajun seasoning. It’s a non-negotiable ingredient for achieving the signature comforting richness that makes this recipe a weeknight go-to. Don’t skimp on the fat content here; full-fat heavy cream yields the best results.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: As a core member of the aromatic “holy trinity” (onion, celery, bell pepper), yellow onion forms a crucial flavor builder for the sauce base. When sautéed until translucent, it releases a sweet, pungent depth that lays a strong foundation for the other spices and ingredients to build upon. This humble vegetable is essential for developing the complex, savory undertones that elevate the overall taste profile of your creamy Cajun pasta.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped: These vibrant bell peppers contribute not only beautiful color but also a crisp-tender texture and a mild, sweet pepperiness that is synonymous with Cajun cuisine. Using both red and green bell peppers adds visual appeal and a slightly varied flavor complexity, making them a delightful complement to the smoky sausage and spicy sauce. They are an essential part of the “holy trinity” of aromatics, offering a fresh counterpoint to the richness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A foundational fat for sautéing, olive oil is used to brown the Andouille sausage and soften the aromatics, effectively building the initial layers of flavor for your creamy Cajun sauce. Using a good quality olive oil ensures a clean, subtle base that allows the robust flavors of the sausage and spices to truly shine. It’s crucial for preventing sticking and developing that desirable golden-brown caramelization on your vegetables.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: An indispensable aromatic, minced garlic provides a pungent, warm, and slightly sweet depth that is absolutely essential to nearly any savory dish, and especially this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta. Its robust flavor complements the spicy Cajun seasoning beautifully, adding a layer of complexity that elevates the entire dish. Be mindful not to burn it; add it to the pot after the onions have softened to ensure its flavor is perfectly integrated without any bitterness.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained: These fire-roasted diced tomatoes are a fantastic flavor builder, introducing a subtle acidity, a touch of sweetness, and a wonderful smoky depth that beautifully balances the richness of the heavy cream and the spice of the Cajun seasoning. They contribute to the vibrant color of the sauce and add another layer of complexity that makes each bite more intriguing. The fire-roasted variety truly elevates the flavor profile compared to regular diced tomatoes.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a secret weapon for adding an extra layer of savory richness and a delightful umami finish to your creamy Cajun sauce. As it melts into the hot pasta, it thickens the sauce slightly and imparts a salty, nutty depth that complements the spicy sausage and creamy texture. Always grate your own block of Parmesan for superior flavor and a smoother melt compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• 2-3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste): This robust Cajun seasoning is the essential spice blend that truly defines the signature spicy, earthy, and complex flavor profile of our Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta. It’s the heart and soul of the dish, infusing every component with that characteristic Southern warmth and kick. Whether you choose a store-bought blend or mix your own, be sure to adjust the amount to your personal heat preference, ensuring a perfectly tailored level of spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: An absolutely crucial seasoning, salt is essential for enhancing and balancing all the individual flavors within your creamy Cajun sausage pasta. It brings out the best in the sausage, vegetables, and sauce, ensuring that no element tastes flat or underdeveloped. It’s important to taste and adjust the salt levels carefully throughout the cooking process, especially since your broth and Cajun seasoning may already contain some sodium, leading to a perfectly seasoned final dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste: Providing a subtle warmth and a pungent, earthy kick, freshly ground black pepper is a simple yet effective seasoning that beautifully complements the complex flavors of the Cajun seasoning and smoky sausage. It adds another layer of spice and aromatic depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Always opt for freshly ground black pepper over pre-ground for a noticeably superior aroma and more robust flavor in your creamy pasta.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: While often seen as just a garnish, fresh parsley plays an important role in finishing this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, offering a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich, spicy sauce. Its slightly peppery, clean flavor brightens the overall dish, making it feel lighter and more appealing. Chop it finely just before serving to maximize its aromatic impact and visual appeal.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

Sear Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced Andouille sausage and cook until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage, then sauté chopped yellow onion and bell peppers in the same pot until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients:

Stir minced garlic into the pot for 1 minute until fragrant. Add low-sodium chicken broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained), Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and penne pasta. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Simmer Pasta:

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. This is key for your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot).

Finish Sauce:

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix vigorously until the sauce emulsifies into a rich, creamy consistency, beautifully coating every piece of pasta in this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot).

Assemble Dish:

Return the browned Andouille sausage to the pot. Taste the dish and adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed for your perfect flavor balance. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish to your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot).

Serve Pasta:

Ladle generous portions of your delicious Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot) into bowls. Garnish generously with the remaining fresh Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting weeknight meal!

How to Store Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

To keep your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta fresh, store any leftovers promptly in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking; it will stay delicious for 3-4 days. Leaving it out too long can dry it out and lead to spoilage – don’t do what I did and leave it on the counter! Always check for an off smell before enjoying.

You can prep the sausage and chop veggies a day ahead, storing them separately. For reheating, gently warm portions, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

What to Serve with Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

To serve this Effortless Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, simply ladle generous portions into warm bowls. For a truly perfect presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s best enjoyed warm, straight from the pot, and beautifully pairs with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty garlic bread.

My personal favorite way to serve this pasta is alongside a simple, crisp green salad. The fresh, bright flavors perfectly pair with the creamy richness, creating a complete and incredibly satisfying meal to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different sausage for this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta?

Absolutely! While Andouille offers authentic flavor, you can substitute with smoked sausage or even chicken sausage. Just be sure to brown it well for flavor development. I’ve used kielbasa in a pinch, and it still tastes great.

→ How do I prevent my Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta sauce from being soupy?

Ensure you reduce the liquid sufficiently during simmering, and stir occasionally. Removing the pot from heat before adding cream and Parmesan is crucial for emulsification. My first attempt was soupy, so I learned this lesson well!

→ Can I make this Effortless Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta recipe gluten-free?

Yes, easily! Simply use your favorite gluten-free short pasta variety. Ensure your Andouille sausage and chicken broth are also certified gluten-free, as some brands contain hidden gluten. It’s just as delicious and satisfying.

→ How long do leftovers of Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta stay fresh?

Your Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta leftovers will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain quality and safety. Don’t leave it out like I used to!

→ Can I freeze this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for later meals?

Freezing isn’t ideal for creamy pasta dishes, as the sauce can separate upon reheating, becoming grainy. While technically possible, I don’t recommend it for optimal texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.