why make this recipe
Cajun Sausage Pasta is a fast, flavorful weeknight dinner that brings smoky sausage, bold Cajun spices, and a creamy sauce together in one pan. It’s forgiving, cooks quickly, and satisfies both comfort-food cravings and spice lovers.
introduction
This one-pot-style pasta combines sliced smoked sausage with sautéed vegetables, garlic, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to penne or fusilli. It’s an adaptable recipe — you can dial the heat up or down, swap proteins, or add extra vegetables to stretch it further. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings.
how to make Cajun Sausage Pasta
Start by browning the sausage to build flavor, then soften the aromatics (onion and bell pepper). Add garlic and Cajun seasoning briefly to wake up the spices. Cook the pasta directly in the pan with just enough water to cover (one-pot method), then finish by stirring in heavy cream and shredded cheese to form a silky, rich sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or pepper jack)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions :
- In a large pot or skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute.
- Add the pasta and enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil and cook until pasta is al dente.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
how to serve Cajun Sausage Pasta
Serve hot straight from the pan into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and brightness. Offer extra shredded cheese, a wedge of lemon (for a bright squeeze), or a side of crusty bread to sop up the creamy sauce. Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
how to store Cajun Sausage Pasta
Cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Cajun Sausage Pasta
- Use smoked sausage (like andouille or kielbasa) for depth of flavor. Browning it well adds caramelized notes.
- If you prefer a looser sauce, reserve a bit of pasta cooking water or add more cream/milk when finishing.
- Taste for seasoning at the end — some sausages are saltier than others.
- To make it spicier, increase the Cajun seasoning or add cayenne; to tame heat, use mild sausage or reduce seasoning.
- Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will soften a bit when mixed with the sauce.
variation (if any)
- Protein swaps: replace sausage with sliced chicken, shrimp, or a plant-based sausage.
- Vegetable add-ins: spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or corn work well and add color.
- Cheese options: pepper jack for extra heat, smoked cheddar for more depth, or a blend for creaminess.
- Make it lighter: use half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken instead of heavy cream.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes — use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage and seasonings are labeled gluten-free.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: You can brown the sausage and pre-chop vegetables ahead of time. Cooked and sauced pasta is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and reheated as noted above.
Q: How can I reduce the calories?
A: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a light cream alternative and use a moderate amount of cheese; add more vegetables to increase volume without many extra calories.
Conclusion
For another take on a creamy, one-pot Cajun sausage pasta with clear step-by-step guidance, check out this recipe: One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta – Pass Me Some Tasty.
Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute.
- Add the pasta and enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil and cook until pasta is al dente.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
