Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot)

If you’re craving a rich, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly and with minimal cleanup, this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot) is your new go-to recipe. With tender penne pasta swimming in a luscious, spicy cream sauce packed with juicy turkey sausage and vibrant veggies, it’s comfort food elevated. This one-pot wonder simplifies weeknight cooking without sacrificing the bold Cajun flavors we all love. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish hits all the right notes with a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory in every bite.

Why It Works Every Time

This recipe shines because it’s built on simplicity and bold flavors. Here’s why it delivers consistently delicious results:

• One-pot convenience: Less mess means you’re more likely to make this again and again.
• Layered seasoning: The combination of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper creates a deep, smoky heat that’s perfectly balanced by the cream and cheese.
• Turkey sausage: Lean yet flavorful, it provides a satisfying protein without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh vegetables: Onion, bell pepper, and garlic add texture and natural sweetness that complements the spice.
• Creamy sauce: Heavy cream and mozzarella meld into a velvety coating for the pasta, making every forkful indulgent.

This recipe also allows you to tweak the heat and richness to your taste, so it’s adaptable whether you want mild comfort or a spicy kick. The magic is in the timing—cooking everything together allows the pasta to soak up all those savory flavors.

Ingredient Notes

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The ridges and tube shape hold the sauce beautifully. You can swap for other short pasta like rigatoni or ziti if preferred.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the sausage and veggies, bringing out their natural flavors.
• 1 pound turkey sausage, sliced: Opt for a spicy turkey sausage for more heat or mild if you prefer less spice. Make sure it’s fully cooked before adding cream.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a slight sweetness. Red, yellow, or orange peppers work best.
• 1 onion, diced: Provides a savory base. Yellow or white onions are ideal.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend here. Choose your favorite or make your own with paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky richness and a subtle sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For extra heat—add more or less depending on your spice tolerance.
• 2 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that flavors and softens the pasta.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce for stringy, gooey goodness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste—season carefully at the end.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of green.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid: Essential for cooking everything in one pot without spilling.
• Sharp chef’s knife: For dicing veggies and slicing sausage evenly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prepping ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan as the sauce thickens.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To keep the proportions of spices and liquids accurate.

Mastering Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot): How-To

Step 1: Prep your ingredients

Slice the turkey sausage into bite-sized rounds. Dice the bell pepper and onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Brown the sausage

Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in your large skillet. Add the turkey sausage slices and cook until they’re nicely browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step develops flavor and texture. Once browned, remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

In the same pan, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.

Step 4: Add spices and liquids

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the veggies and toast the spices for about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausage to the pan.

Step 5: Cook the pasta

Add the penne pasta to the mixture and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the pasta simmer in the broth for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should absorb the flavorful broth and become tender.

Step 6: Stir in cream and cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately for the creamiest texture and best flavor.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Pasta: Swap penne for fusilli, farfalle, or rotini for a different shape that still holds sauce well.
• Sausage: Try chicken sausage for a lighter option or a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
• Heavy cream: Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream to make it dairy-free while keeping richness.
• Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a sharper flavor.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition and variety.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Pasta turns mushy: Keep a close eye on the simmering time and test the pasta early. Overcooking causes sogginess; reduce broth slightly next time if that happens.

• Sauce too thin: Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce and thicken, or add more cheese to help thicken.

• Sausage dry or tough: Avoid slicing too thin; cook just until browned and don’t overcook when simmering with pasta.

• Spice level too mild or too hot: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference before cooking.

Best Ways to Store

This pasta keeps well and can be enjoyed later with these tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly.
• Avoid reheating in the microwave without stirring to prevent uneven warming and drying out.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the creamy sauce, you can use other short pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish spicier or milder?

Yes! The spice level is easily adjusted by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. For milder versions, reduce or omit cayenne; for more heat, add extra or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes when serving.

What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of butter, though the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream work beautifully and keep the sauce creamy.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the turkey sausage for plant-based sausage or add hearty veggies like mushrooms and eggplant for a satisfying vegetarian version. Just adjust the seasoning to keep the robust Cajun flavor.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Linguine – A seafood twist with a lighter pasta option.
• Jambalaya With Chicken Sausage – Hearty and packed with veggies and protein.
• American Chop Suey Goulash – A comforting pasta dish with ground beef and tomato sauce.

Save & Share

If you love this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta (One Pot) recipe, be sure to bookmark it for easy access on busy nights. Share it with friends and family who appreciate a quick, flavorful meal without the fuss. It’s perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners and is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

With just one pot, simple ingredients, and bold Cajun spices, this pasta dish brings a taste of the South to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Dive in and enjoy the creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying flavors that make this recipe a weeknight winner every time.

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