Description
How to make creamy Cajun sausage pasta with tender pasta and a rich, spicy sauce, all in one pot, that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Base & Main Components:
- 1 lb (450g) Andouille sausage, sliced
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or similar short pasta)
- 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- Flavor Builders:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Seasonings & Spices:
- 2–3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
- Finishing & Toppings:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
Remove pot from heat before adding cream and cheese for a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
Substitute Andouille with smoked sausage or chicken sausage for a similar, delicious flavor profile.
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley; pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Toast Cajun seasoning briefly in hot oil to unlock deeper, richer spice notes and enhance flavor.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten