Why I Love This Recipe
There’s nothing like the deep flavor that comes from smoky sausage, a Cajun-spiced cream sauce, and pasta cooked right in the same pot. It’s rich but not heavy, spicy but balanced, and endlessly customizable.
I love that it’s a complete meal on its own — protein, carbs, and veggies in every bite. And if you’re a fan of bold, Southern-inspired dishes like Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo, you’re going to fall hard for this pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
🔥 Protein:
- Smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into thin rounds
🌶 Seasoning:
- Cajun seasoning – Use your favorite blend or homemade for custom heat
🥬 Vegetables:
- Bell peppers – Red, green, or yellow, chopped
- Onion – Finely chopped
🍝 Pasta & Base:
- Pasta – Penne, rotini, or shells work well
- Chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce
- All-purpose flour – Optional, to thicken the sauce slightly
🧀 Creamy Sauce:
- Heavy cream – For richness
- Shredded cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- Slice the sausage into rounds.
- Chop the bell peppers and onion.
- Measure your Cajun seasoning, broth, cream, and cheese so everything’s ready to go.
2. Cook the Sausage and Veggies
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, sauté the sausage until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
Add a bit more oil if needed, then cook the bell peppers and onions for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
3. Create the Flavor Base
Sprinkle Cajun seasoning (and a spoonful of flour if using) over the veggies.
Stir well to coat.
Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
5. Make it Creamy
Lower the heat. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese, mixing until smooth and melted.
Return the sausage to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice.
Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Tips for Success
- Use smoked sausage for that signature bold flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – it will continue to absorb sauce as it sits.
- Prefer less heat? Use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the quantity.
- Add greens – Stir in spinach at the end for a veggie boost.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish is a full meal, but you can serve it with:
- A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette for soaking up the sauce
- Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer to cool down the spice
Hosting a casual dinner? Pair it with:
- Dorito Casserole – cheesy, fun, and crowd-friendly
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Instant Pot Lasagna – another comfort food classic
- Easy Turkey Wings for a bold, Southern-style spread
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo to keep the flavors in the family
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- Dorito Casserole
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- Easy Turkey Wings
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is everything you want in a comfort food dinner: spicy, smoky, rich, and ready in one pot. It’s the kind of dish that makes people ask for seconds (and the recipe). Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just want a low-effort, high-reward meal, this one delivers every time.
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