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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

Avatar photoBySusan Miller
Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 74 reviews
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, creamy textures, and that perfect hint of spice, you’re going to love this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together quickly, marrying smoky andouille sausage with tender pasta all coated in a luscious, spicy cream sauce. Trust me, this one will be on repeat in your dinner rotation!

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Effortless Cleanup: Since everything cooks in a single pot, you’ll save time scrubbing pans after dinner.
Rich, Comforting Flavors: The creamy Cajun sauce, combined with the smoky sausage, creates a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy.
Quick to Prepare: From start to finish, this dish takes just about 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable to Your Taste: You can tweak the spice level or swap in your favorite sausage or pasta shape without compromising the dish’s soul.

The dish is a bowl filled with rigatoni pasta coated in a creamy orange sauce. Mixed in are small round slices of brown sausage that have a slightly crispy texture. Small pieces of red tomato and sprinkled green herbs, likely parsley, are scattered throughout the dish. The creamy sauce covers the pasta evenly with some visible flecks of black pepper on top. A silver fork is placed inside the bowl, partially buried in the pasta. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, Cajun sausage pasta recipe, creamy Cajun pasta, easy Cajun sausage dinner, one pot sausage pasta

Ingredients & Substitutions

Every ingredient in this One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role—from the smoky andouille sausage that adds depth to the hearty rigatoni to the creamy Parmesan that melts into a silky sauce. The fresh veggies bring brightness and balance to this spicy, indulgent pasta.

Flat lay of sliced andouille sausage rounds, diced yellow onion, diced red bell pepper, minced garlic cloves, a small heap of Cajun seasoning powder, canned diced tomatoes with juice, rigatoni pasta pieces, fresh chopped parsley leaves, and a small pile of shredded Parmesan cheese, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, Cajun sausage pasta recipe, creamy Cajun pasta, easy Cajun sausage dinner, one pot sausage pasta
  • Olive oil: A simple base for sautéing that gently caramelizes the sausage and veggies.
  • Yellow onion & red bell pepper: These add sweetness and crunch, complementing the spicy sausage perfectly.
  • Andouille sausage: This smoky, Cajun-spiced sausage is the heart of the dish—feel free to substitute with chorizo or kielbasa if needed.
  • Cajun seasoning: The spice blend that gives the pasta its signature kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
  • Rigatoni or penne pasta: Tubular pasta shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Chicken broth and diced tomatoes: These liquids create a flavorful cooking base that infuses the pasta during simmering.
  • Cornstarch slurry: Used to thicken the sauce for that irresistible creamy coating.
  • Heavy cream & Parmesan cheese: Together, they enrich the sauce to the perfect decadent finish.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top before serving.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned and aromatic. This step is key to developing the deep smoky flavor that sets the stage for the entire dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Once the sausage is browned, toss in the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly, releasing their natural sweetness to balance out the bold spice of the sausage.

Step 3: Build Layers of Flavor

Add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning to the pan, stirring everything together for about a minute. The garlic will toast lightly, awakening its flavor, while the Cajun seasoning infuses the sausage and veggies with that vibrant, spicy character you crave.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and add the rigatoni pasta. Stir to combine, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and soaks up all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Thicken and Finish the Sauce

Carefully spoon out about ½ cup of the cooking liquid and whisk in the cornstarch until dissolved, creating a smooth slurry. Pour this back into the pot and stir well to thicken the sauce. Then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting it simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is luxuriously creamy and the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a beautiful, fresh finish. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy every creamy, spicy, comforting bite of this fabulous pasta!

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

The image shows a white pot filled with rigatoni pasta in a creamy orange sauce. There are several round slices of browned sausage mixed in, along with small pieces of red tomatoes. The pasta is sprinkled with green chopped herbs and grated cheese, and the dish has a slightly glossy texture. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, Cajun sausage pasta recipe, creamy Cajun pasta, easy Cajun sausage dinner, one pot sausage pasta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for show—it adds a bright herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to elevate the flavors even further if you like a touch of acidity.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy Cajun sauce. For a heartier meal, steamed green beans or sautéed spinach make excellent complements.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta family-style right from the pot for a cozy vibe, or dress it up by plating individual servings topped with a fresh sprig of parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You could also bake it briefly with a layer of mozzarella on top for a bubbly, cheesy crust twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually marry even more as it chills, making it great for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this creamy pasta, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave covered in short bursts to preserve creaminess without drying out.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

    Absolutely! While andouille sausage provides that classic Cajun heat and smokiness, you can substitute with chorizo, kielbasa, or even a mild smoked sausage depending on your flavor preference. Just make sure to slice it thin for even cooking.

  2. What if I don’t have rigatoni or penne pasta?

    No worries! Other medium to large pasta shapes like ziti, shells, or farfalle work well too because they hold the creamy sauce nicely. Avoid very small or thin pastas to keep the texture balanced.

  3. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

    Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The dish will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.

  4. Can I make this recipe spicier?

    Definitely—just add extra Cajun seasoning or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne powder when adding the spices. You can even add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to amp up the heat to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer when you want a flavorful, comforting meal without the fuss. Its creamy sauce, bold spices, and simple preparation make it a perfect dish to share with family or friends any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Susan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun
Print Recipe

Description

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and comforting meal featuring tender rigatoni cooked in a spicy tomato and Cajun seasoned broth, combined with browned andouille sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cream and Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick, hearty weeknight dinner, it requires minimal cleanup and delivers big on taste with a creamy, spicy kick.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 pound rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Sausage: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add Garlic and Cajun Seasoning: Stir in 1 tablespoon minced garlic and 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute to allow the spices to toast and become fragrant.
  4. Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Pasta: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth, add the 2 cans of undrained diced tomatoes, and then add the rigatoni pasta. Stir everything well to combine and press the pasta gently below the liquid surface.
  5. Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
  6. Create Cornstarch Slurry: Remove about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid from the pot and place it in a small bowl or measuring cup. Whisk in 2 tablespoons cornstarch until fully dissolved, forming a slurry. Pour the slurry back into the pot and stir thoroughly to combine and begin thickening the sauce.
  7. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese fully melts into the creamy sauce.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pasta with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the pasta warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use andouille sausage for authentic Cajun flavor, but smoked sausage can be a substitute.
  • The pasta type can be rigatoni, penne, or any short pasta that holds sauce well.
  • Be sure to stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • If sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it.
  • Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice fresh finish to the dish.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or cream.
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