why make this recipe
This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a fast, flavorful weeknight meal that delivers big, comforting flavors with minimal cleanup. It combines smoky andouille sausage, creamy sauce, a touch of heat from Rotel and Cajun seasoning, and melty cheddar — all cooked in one pan so dinner is ready in about 30 minutes.
introduction
Rich, creamy, and slightly spicy, this pasta is perfect when you want something satisfying without fuss. The single-skillet method lets the pasta absorb the tomatoey, seasoned broth for concentrated flavor, while the sausage adds a smoky bite and texture. It’s an excellent recipe for busy nights, casual gatherings, or when you want leftovers that taste even better the next day.
how to make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Brown the sausage, sauté the garlic in the rendered fat, then add the liquids, tomatoes, seasoning and dry pasta. Simmer until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, then finish by stirring the cooked sausage back in and melting plenty of cheddar for a creamy, cohesive dish.
Ingredients :
- 1 (13oz) pack cajun andouille sausage ((cut into coins))
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 (14.5oz) can chicken broth ((about 2 cups))
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 (10oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and chilies
- 8 ounces dry bowtie pasta ((½ pound or approximately 2 cups))
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning (*see notes)
Directions :
- In a large skillet (big enough to eventually fit the pasta that also has a lid), cook the sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until browned to your liking.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Don’t get rid of the sausage grease in the pan!
- In the same skillet, sauté the garlic in the leftover sausage grease for about a minute and then pour in the can of chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and about 1 tsp of cajun seasoning. Stir in the dry pasta, cover with a lid, and simmer on LOW for about 14 minutes.
- Once the pasta is fully cooked, toss in the cooked sausage and a few cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy!
how to serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Serve hot straight from the skillet for a family-style meal. Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions and extra shredded cheddar if desired. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad helps balance the richness.
how to store One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals stirring between each. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
- Use a large, heavy skillet with a tight-fitting lid so the pasta cooks evenly.
- Don’t discard the sausage grease — it adds essential flavor to the dish.
- Stir the pasta a couple times while simmering to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of Rotel or Cajun seasoning.
- For a smoother sauce, shred the cheese finely so it melts evenly.
variation (if any)
- Swap andouille for smoked kielbasa or chorizo for a different smoky profile.
- Make it lighter by using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream (sauce will be thinner).
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or frozen peas for color and extra nutrition.
- Use penne, rotini, or ziti instead of bowtie pasta — adjust cooking time as needed.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: Yes — freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I reduce the spice level?
A: Use mild diced tomatoes instead of Rotel and reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning.
Conclusion
For the original recipe and additional tips, see One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta – Pass Me Some Tasty.
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until browned.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a paper towel lined plate, keeping the sausage grease in the pan.
- Sauté the garlic in the leftover sausage grease for about a minute.
- Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and cajun seasoning to the skillet, stir well.
- Stir in the dry bowtie pasta, cover, and simmer on low for about 14 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked.
- Toss in the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine and melt the cheese.
